Oral administration of Angelica sinensis polysaccharide protects against pancreatic islets failure in type 2 diabetic mice: Pancreatic β-cell apoptosis inhibition

•ASP administration could improve the hyperglycemia and hyperlipoidemia.•ASP protects pancreatic islets against high-fat diet and streptozotocin-induced injury.•ASP inhibits the apoptosis of β-cells by regulating extrinsic and intrinsic pathways.•ASP increases the insulin levels and promotes the insulin secretion.