Streptozotocin (STZ) (2-deoxy-2-({[methyl(nitroso)amino]carbonyl}amino)-β-D-glucopyranose) is a naturally occurring diabetogenic compound, produced by the soil bacterium streptomyces achromogenes, that exhibits broad spectrum of antibacterial properties. Streptozotocin functions as a DNA synthesis inhibitor in both bacterial and mammalian cells. In mammalian cells, the actual mechanism and metabolic targets of STZ toxicity that results in cell death is not known. This review identifies four key areas that explain the mechanism of the cytotoxicity of STZ in mammalian cell lines, investigates the practical aspects of using STZ in experimental animals and the potential risks of its exposure to human health.

HighlightsStreptozotocin induced diabetes altered fasting blood glucose, glycated hemoglobin, body weight, serum lipid profiles, hepatic lipogenic enzymes and antioxidant activities of the rats.Livingstone potato modulated the fasting blood glucose, glycated hemoglobin, lipid profiles, hepatic lipogenic enzymes and antioxidant status of the diabetic rats.Treatment of diabetics with livingstone potato may lead to increased utilization of circulating glucose by the liver.