Objective To explore the possible mechanism of Gegen Qinlian Decoction（ 葛根芩连汤） in protecting islet cells of newly diagnosed type 2 diabetic rats. Methods A total of 24 male ZDF（ fa/fa） rats were given highfat diet to induce type 2 diabetes mellitus. After the model was successfully established

the rats were randomly divided into Gegen Qinlian Decoction group

metformin group

model group

with 8 rats in each group. 8 male ZDF（ fa/+）rats were used as negative control group. The model group and negative control group were given by gavage with normal saline 10 ml/kg

and Gegen Qinlian Decoction group was given by gavage with Gegen Qinlian Decoction 13. 8 g/kg.Metformin group was given by gavage with metformin 300 mg/kg. After 8 weeks of administration

the expression of IRS-2

PI3 K p85

Akt2

p-IRS2

p-PI3 K p85 and p-Akt2 in the pancreas was detected by Western blot. The expression of IRS-2

PI3 K p85 and Akt2 mRNA was detected by RT-q PCR. The content of FINS was determined by ELISA. The percentage of Hb A1 c was determined by TINIA. Results Compared with model group

the FPG level

FINS levels and Hb A1 c ratio was declined

and IRS-2

PI3 K

Akt protein expression

mRNA expression（ P < 0. 05 or P < 0. 01） and p-IRS2

p-PI3 K p85

p-Akt2 protein expression（ P < 0. 01） was increased in Gegen Qinlian Decoction group. Conclusion Gegen Qinlian Decoction may be through the enhancement of IRS-2/PI3 K-Akt pathway to achieve the role of protection of pancreatic β-cells.