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In tropical and subtropical region, Cassia (Fabaceae) is widely distributed, and many species of this genus are used for medicinal purposes such as hypertension, hyperlipidemia, obesity, diabetes in China and India. However, there are limited reviews describing the biological activity on metabolic syndrome associated with Cassia species. Online databases including SciFinder, Web of Science, PubMed, Science Direct, ACS Journals, Springer, Tailor & Francis, Wiley, The Plant List Database, Google Scholar, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), were consulted by using " Cassia ", "决明属(Cassia)", " Senna ", "ethnobotany", "traditional use", "ethnomedicine", "phytochemistry", "Lipid Metabolism", "metabolic syndrome", "anti-obesity", "anti-diabetes" and "anti- hyperlipidemia" as keywords. Extracts, a total of 23 non-volatile natural products and one peptide from 18 Cassia species have demonstrated efficacy in treating metabolic syndrome and related complications. Sixty-five commercial Chinese polyherbal preparation with ingredients of Cassia seeds or Senna leaves showed effects on MetS. This review presents an in-depth analysis of the chemical constituents and medicinal properties of the ethnomedicinally important Cassia species on metabolic syndrome and related complications such as hyperlipidemia, obesity and diabetes etc. Overall, most publications focused on species of C. angustifolia, C. auriculate, C. fistula, C. glauca , and C. obtusifolia. It is not fully understood how chemical compounds interact with the corresponding target proteins. In spite of this, preliminary data from other Cassia species indicate the potential of this genus for research on metabolic syndrome, both phytochemically, pharmacologically and clinical uses of C. species. [Display omitted] • Effects of Cassia species on metabolic syndrome and related complications. • Literatures published from 1991 to 2023 on the genus Cassia. • 18 Cassia species have demonstrated efficacy in treating metabolic syndrome. • 23 non-volatile natural products and one peptide are effective on metabolic syndrome. • Quality standard requirements for Cassiae semen and Senna in different pharmacopoeias. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigated the effects of a single and simultaneous intake of allitol and d-allulose on body fat accumulation and cecal short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) production and accurately assessed the contribution of rare sugars to body fat in rats fed a high-fat diet that led to obesity. Thirty-two male 3-week-old Wistar rats were randomly divided into four groups: control, allitol, d-allulose, and allitol + d-allulose. The rats were fed experimental diets and water ad libitum for 11 weeks. High doses of allitol or d-allulose can induce diarrhea in rat; hence, each group of rats was acclimated to 1-5% allitol and d-allulose incrementally for the initial 20 days. After the feeding period, all rats were euthanized and collected tissues. Perirenal, mesenteric, and total intra-abdominal adipose tissue weights were significantly reduced by dietary dallulose, whereas dietary allitol tended to decrease these adipose tissue weights. Both allitol and d-allulose significantly decreased carcass and total body fat mass. We confirmed that both dietary allitol and d-allulose inhibited body fat accumulation; however, d-allulose did not inhibit hepatic lipogenesis and no synergy was observed between dietary allitol and d-allulose in terms of anti-obesity effects. Dietary allitol significantly increased cecal SCFA levels and these effects were more potent than those of dietary d-allulose. The antiobesity effect of allitol may be due to the action of SCFAs, especially butyric acid, produced by the gut microbiota. Many of the effects of allitol as an alternative sweetener remain unknown, and further research is required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glucose‐dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) is a gastrointestinal hormone secreted by K cells in the small intestine and is considered an obesity‐promoting factor. In this study, we systematically investigated the anti‐obesity effects of intragastric safflower yellow (SY)/hydroxysafflor yellow A (HSYA) and the underlying mechanism for the first time. Our results showed that intragastric SY/HSYA, rather than an intraperitoneal injection, notably decreased serum GIP levels and GIP staining in the small intestine in diet‐induced obese (DIO) mice. Moreover, intragastric SY/HSYA was also first found to significantly suppress GIP receptor (GIPR) signaling in both the hypothalamus and subcutaneous White adipose tissue. Our study is the first to show that intragastric SY/HSYA obviously reduced food intake and body weight gain in leptin sensitivity experiments and decreased serum leptin levels in DIO mice. Further experiments demonstrated that SY treatment also significantly reduced leptin levels, whereas the inhibitory effect of SY on leptin levels was reversed by activating GIPR in 3 T3‐L1 adipocytes. In addition, intragastric SY/HSYA had already significantly reduced serum GIP levels and GIPR expression before the serum leptin levels were notably changed in high‐fat‐diet‐fed mice. These findings suggested that intragastric SY/HSYA may alleviate diet‐induced obesity in mice by ameliorating hyperleptinemia via dual inhibition of the GIP‐GIPR axis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Turmeric (Curcuma longa) is an herbaceous plant that contains a phytochemical which is bright yellow and is known as curcumin. Turmeric, a member of Zingiberaceae family, has extensive application worldwide due to its beneficial medicinal attributes and is extensively used as a medicinal plant. Most people use turmeric as a spice, and it is a chief source of polyphenol curcumin. Curcuma longa has therapeutic properties, and since the initial extraction of curcumin from this plant, it has gained prodigious consideration from scientists in the medical field. The biological properties of curcumin, also known as 1,7‐bis (4‐hydroxy‐3‐methoxyphenyl)‐1,6‐heptadiene‐3,5‐dione, or diferuloylmethane, include anti‐inflammatory, anti‐oxidant, anti‐cancer, anti‐asthmatic, anti‐arthritic, neuroprotective, anti‐diabetic, anti‐obesity, wound‐healing, hepatoprotective, skin curative, reproductive role, etc. This work has reviewed many clinical trials and their findings about these activities. The focus of this review manuscript is concentrated on the presently existing clinical and animal studies, which exposed the possible anti‐retroviral activities of curcumin and its by‐products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Obesity is a major global health concern. Studies suggest that the gut microflora may play a role in protecting against obesity. Probiotics, including lactic acid bacteria and Bifidobacterium, have garnered attention for their potential in obesity prevention. However, the effects of Bifidobacterium-fermented products on obesity have not been thoroughly elucidated. Bifidobacterium, which exists in the gut of animals, is known to enhance lipid metabolism. During fermentation, it produces acetic acid, which has been reported to improve glucose tolerance and insulin resistance, and exhibit anti-obesity and anti-diabetic effects. Functional foods have been very popular around the world, and fermented milk is a good candidate for enrichment with probiotics. In this study, we aim to evaluate the beneficial effects of milks fermented with Bifidobacterium strains on energy metabolism and obesity prevention. Three Bifidobacterium strains (Bif-15, Bif-30, and Bif-39), isolated from newborn human feces, were assessed for their acetic acid production and viability in milk. These strains were used to ferment milk. Otsuka–Long–Evans Tokushima Fatty (OLETF) rats administered Bif-15-fermented milk showed significantly lower weight gain compared to those in the water group. The phosphorylation of AMPK was increased and the expression of lipogenic genes was suppressed in the liver of rats given Bif-15-fermented milk. Additionally, gene expression related to respiratory metabolism was significantly increased in the soleus muscle of rats given Bif-15-fermented milk. These findings suggest that milk fermented with the Bifidobacterium strain Bif-15 can improve lipid metabolism and suppress obesity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Exploring the therapeutic potential of unutilized plant parts from agricultural crops represents a promising strategy for discovering novel medications with high positive economic value. This study aimed to characterize the composition, antidiabetic, anti-obesity, antioxidant, and cytotoxic effects of volatile oil (VO) extracted from the leaves of Citrus japonica trees. This is the first research to assess the C. japonica VO’s anti-obesity, anti-lipase, and cytotoxic properties. Using 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-5-(3-carboxymethoxyphenyl)-2-(4-sulfophenyl)-2H-tetrazolium (MTS) assays and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) analysis, the components of VO and its capacity to suppress the growth of cancer and other abnormal cells were ascertained, respectively. Stable 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radicals, p-nitrophenyl butyrate (PNPB), and dinitrosalicylic acid (DNSA) assays were employed to determine antioxidant, anti-obesity, and antidiabetic activities, respectively. Results: The C. japonica leaf showed significant diversity in type and percentage of VO molecules. Overall, 45 compounds were identified in the VO, constituting 99.69% of the total oil composition. γ-Muurolene (28.12%), β-eudesmol (10.93%), γ-eudesmol (8.44%), germacrene B (7.39%), and elemol (7.27%) are the major characterized molecules. According to the inhibition percentage results of DPPH free radicals, porcine pancreatic lipase, and α-amylase, the VO exhibits strong antioxidant properties and weak inhibitory effects on lipase and α-amylase enzymes. The C. japonica VO showed a moderate cytotoxic effect against Hep3B and considerable activity on B16F1, CaCo-2, HeLa, MCF-7, and HepG2, with IC50 doses in the range of 69.7–171.96 µg/mL. The VO cytotoxic effect IC50 against the normal cell line LX-2 was 224.95 µg/mL. Conclusion: The current study collectively presented the chemical constituents of C. japonica leaf VO from Palestine for the first time and demonstrated its inhibitory effects against DPPH free radicals, porcine pancreatic lipase, and α-amylase. The results suggest that C. japonica leaf VO has the potential to be used as a natural supplement to prevent or treat cancer, as well as in the food industry as a natural antioxidant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rising obesity and associated multi-systemic complications amplify the health burden. Euphorbia kansui (EK) extract is clinically recognized for managing obesity. In a human study, 240 obese individuals were categorized into two cohorts: those receiving solely herbal medicine (HM group) and those administered EK concomitantly with herbal medicine (EK group). An in vivo examination using C57BL/6-Lepob/Lepob mice elucidated mechanisms involving macrophages and gut microbiota with associated metabolic advantages. The clinical study revealed a significant 7.22% body weight reduction during 91.55 average treatment days and examined 16.71% weight loss at 300 days after treatment. In whole subjects, 60.4%, 21.3%, and 6.3% achieved weight reductions exceeding 5%, 10%, and 15%, respectively. Impressively, the EK group exhibited superior weight loss compared to the HM group (EK: −7.73% vs. HM: −6.27%, p = 0.012). The anti-obesity effect was positively associated with EK therapy frequency and herbal medicine duration. In the in vivo study, EK significantly improved insulin sensitivity and mitigated infiltration of adipose tissue macrophages (ATMs) by modulating the CD11c+ and CD206+ subtypes. EK also correlated with increased Bacteroidetes and Firmicutes populations and reduced Proteobacteria and Verrucomicrobia. Consequently, EK is an effective adjunctive anti-obesity therapy offering metabolic benefits by modulating ATMs and gut microbiota profiles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Nuciferine (NUC), a natural compound extracted from lotus leaves, has been proven to have anti‐obesity effects. However, the development and application of NUC as an anti‐obesity drug in dogs are hindered due to its poor water solubility and low bioavailability. Objective: To promote the development of NUC‐related products for anti‐obesity in dogs, this study prepared NUC into a liposome formulation and evaluated its characteristics, pharmacokinetics in dogs, and anti‐obesity effects on high‐fat diet dogs. Methods: NUC liposomes were prepared by the ethanol injection method, using NUC, egg lecithin, and β‐sitosterol as raw materials. The characteristics and release rate in vitro of liposomes were evaluated by particle size analyser and dialysis method, respectively. The pharmacokinetics in dogs after oral administration of NUC‐liposomes was carried out by the high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method. Moreover, we investigated the anti‐obesity effect of NUC‐liposomes on obese dogs fed with a high‐fat diet. Results: NUC‐liposome was successfully prepared, with an EE of (79.31 ± 1.06)%, a particle size of (81.25 ± 3.14) nm, a zeta potential of (–18.75 ± 0.23) mV, and a PDI of 0.175 ± 0.031. The cumulative release rate in vitro of NUC from NUC‐liposomes was slower than that of NUC. The T1/2 and relative bioavailability of NUC‐liposomes in dogs increased, and CL reduced compared with NUC. In addition, the preventive effect of NUC‐liposomes on obesity in high‐fat diet dogs is stronger than that of NUC. Conclusions: The liposome formulation of NUC was conducive to improve its relative bioavailability and anti‐obesity effect in dogs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Our newly developed menthyl esters of valine and isoleucine exhibit anti‐inflammatory properties beyond those of the well‐known menthol in macrophages stimulated by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and in a mouse model of colitis induced by sodium dextran sulfate. Unlike menthol, which acts primarily through the cold‐sensitive TRPM8 channel, these menthyl esters displayed unique mechanisms that operate independently of this receptor. They readily penetrated target cells and efficiently suppressed LPS‐stimulated tumour necrosis factor‐alpha (Tnf) expression mediated by liver X receptor (LXR), a key nuclear receptor that regulates intracellular cholesterol and lipid balance. The menthyl esters showed affinity for LXR and enhanced the transcriptional activity through their non‐competitive and potentially synergistic agonistic effect. This effect can be attributed to the crucial involvement of SCD1, an enzyme regulated by LXR, which is central to lipid metabolism and plays a key role in the anti‐inflammatory response. In addition, we discovered that the menthyl esters showed remarkable efficacy in suppressing adipogenesis in 3T3‐L1 adipocytes at the mitotic clonal expansion stage in an LXR‐independent manner as well as in mice subjected to diet‐induced obesity. These multiple capabilities of our compounds establish them as formidable allies in the fight against inflammation and obesity, paving the way for a range of potential therapeutic applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Avocado seed contains 64% of the phenolic compounds of the whole fruit. This makes avocado seed a potential candidate for the development of treatments for different illnesses, including obesity (the major risk factor for metabolic disorders). The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of avocado seed powder on high-fat diet-induced obesity in rats. Sprague Dawley rats (16 rats) were fed a high-fat diet for 10 weeks. After 10 weeks, the rats were assigned into two groups of eight animals each and were fed either a high-fat diet (HFD; control group) or a high-fat diet containing avocado seed powder (HFD-A; treatment group) for 6 weeks. Animals were weighed weekly, and weekly weight gain was determined. Animals in the treatment (avocado seed) group showed significantly lower body weight gain (7.8 ± 9.63 g) than animals in the control group (33.9 ± 10.84 g) at the end of this study. The treatment group presented with lower triglycerides than the control, with LDL and HDL comparable to the control group. Avocado seed powder showed potential to reduce obesity in rats fed a high-fat diet. Avocado seed can therefore be investigated further as a potential anti-obesity nutraceutical. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Obesity represents a significant global health challenge. The limited efficacy and possible side effects of available anti-obesity agents highlight the need to find new, effective, and safe agents. Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) is an aromatic herbal plant traditionally used as an anti-obesity agent, but previous review studies did not explain the mechanism in detail. Aims: To evaluate the anti-obesity activity of C. citratus in vitro, in vivo, and in humans. Methods: Full-text relevant articles published between 2003 and 2023 were searched through Google Scholar, PubMed, and Scopus. The American Dietetic Association (ADA) quality criteria checklist was used to assess the risk of bias. Data were systematically analysed and presented in tables and flowcharts. Results: Eighteen articles met the inclusion criteria. The anti-obesity activity of C. citratus could come from various parts of the plant (leaves, stalks, roots, or whole plant). Its hydroalcoholic-based extract was rich in polyphenols, which had anti-obesity activity through inhibiting digestive enzymes, appetite suppression, modulation of lipid metabolism, and adipogenesis inhibition. Its essential oil and citral had anti-obesity activity through energy expenditure stimulation, lipid metabolism modulation, and adipogenesis inhibition. Dietary fibre from C. citratus had anti-obesity activity by inhibiting digestive enzymes and modulating lipid metabolism. Conclusions: The anti-obesity activity of C. citratus could come from its polyphenol content, essential oil, or fibre through the same or different mechanisms, namely inhibition of digestive enzymes, suppression of appetite, modulation of lipid metabolism, inhibition of adipogenesis, and stimulation of energy expenditure.

Abstract Background Exploring the therapeutic potential of unutilized plant parts from agricultural crops represents a promising strategy for discovering novel medications with high positive economic value. This study aimed to characterize the composition, antidiabetic, anti-obesity, antioxidant, and cytotoxic effects of volatile oil (VO) extracted from the leaves of Citrus japonica trees. This is the first research to assess the C. japonica VO’s anti-obesity, anti-lipase, and cytotoxic properties. Using 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-5-(3-carboxymethoxyphenyl)-2-(4-sulfophenyl)-2H-tetrazolium (MTS) assays and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) analysis, the components of VO and its capacity to suppress the growth of cancer and other abnormal cells were ascertained, respectively. Stable 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radicals, p-nitrophenyl butyrate (PNPB), and dinitrosalicylic acid (DNSA) assays were employed to determine antioxidant, anti-obesity, and antidiabetic activities, respectively. Results The C. japonica leaf showed significant diversity in type and percentage of VO molecules. Overall, 45 compounds were identified in the VO, constituting 99.69% of the total oil composition. γ-Muurolene (28.12%), β-eudesmol (10.93%), γ-eudesmol (8.44%), germacrene B (7.39%), and elemol (7.27%) are the major characterized molecules. According to the inhibition percentage results of DPPH free radicals, porcine pancreatic lipase, and α-amylase, the VO exhibits strong antioxidant properties and weak inhibitory effects on lipase and α-amylase enzymes. The C. japonica VO showed a moderate cytotoxic effect against Hep3B and considerable activity on B16F1, CaCo-2, HeLa, MCF-7, and HepG2, with IC50 doses in the range of 69.7–171.96 µg/mL. The VO cytotoxic effect IC50 against the normal cell line LX-2 was 224.95 µg/mL. Conclusion The current study collectively presented the chemical constituents of C. japonica leaf VO from Palestine for the first time and demonstrated its inhibitory effects against DPPH free radicals, porcine pancreatic lipase, and α-amylase. The results suggest that C. japonica leaf VO has the potential to be used as a natural supplement to prevent or treat cancer, as well as in the food industry as a natural antioxidant. Graphical Abstract

Avocado seed contains 64% of the phenolic compounds of the whole fruit. This makes avocado seed a potential candidate for the development of treatments for different illnesses, including obesity (the major risk factor for metabolic disorders). The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of avocado seed powder on high-fat diet-induced obesity in rats. Sprague Dawley rats (16 rats) were fed a high-fat diet for 10 weeks. After 10 weeks, the rats were assigned into two groups of eight animals each and were fed either a high-fat diet (HFD; control group) or a high-fat diet containing avocado seed powder (HFD-A; treatment group) for 6 weeks. Animals were weighed weekly, and weekly weight gain was determined. Animals in the treatment (avocado seed) group showed significantly lower body weight gain (7.8 ± 9.63 g) than animals in the control group (33.9 ± 10.84 g) at the end of this study. The treatment group presented with lower triglycerides than the control, with LDL and HDL comparable to the control group. Avocado seed powder showed potential to reduce obesity in rats fed a high-fat diet. Avocado seed can therefore be investigated further as a potential anti-obesity nutraceutical.

It may not always be possible for obese individuals to limit energy intake or to provide and/or maintain greater energy expenditure through exercise and physical activity. Therefore, the search for effective methods for obesity continues. Recently, the anti-obesity effect of stilbenes has attracted attention. In this review, aim was evaluating the effect of pterostilbene and resveratrol against obesity and the possible mechanisms in this effect. Dietary phytochemicals can induce body weight loss by increasing basal metabolic rate and thermogenesis and/or altering lipid metabolism. Stilbenes are products of the plant phenylpropanoid pathway. Very important mechanisms for the anti-obesity impact belonging to resveratrol as well as pterostilbene include thermogenic activation in brown adipose tissue alongside the browning of white adipose tissue. Considering nutrition and dietary habits, which have an important place in lifestyle changes for both the prevention and the treatment of obesity, pterostilbene and resveratrol, which are polyphenols and stilbenes, are seen as promising. However, optimal dose, duration, mechanism, long-term safety, side effects, combination, elucidation of genomic interactions, and lifestyle modifications should be considered. Highlights: Obesity is a serious public health problem that brings with it many diseases and health care spending. Effective strategies are needed in the prevention and treatment of obesity. Resveratrol and pterostilbene, which are stilbenes, can have anti-obesity effects. In obesity, it would be beneficial to evaluate nutrition as a whole. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Pomegranate (Punica granatum) is a tree of the Punicaceae family that is widespread all over the world and has several types and therapeutic uses. The current study aimed to investigate the phytochemical compounds by GC analysis and carried out physical characterization of the pomegranate seed oil and its self-nanoemulsifying system. Then antioxidant, anti-diabetic, and anti-lipase activities were investigated for both.The pomegranate seed oil was extracted, and its self-nanoemulsifying system was then prepared. Phytochemical compounds were analyzed by GC, and physical characterization was established of the pomegranate seed oil and its self-nanoemulsifying system. Then antioxidant, anti-diabetic, and anti-lipase activities were investigated for both.The GC–MS analysis revealed that punicic acid, β-eleosteric acid, catalpic acid, α-eleosteric acid, and oleic acid were the most predominant compounds in pomegranate seed oil. Other active compounds like linoleic acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid, and α-linolenic acid were detected in trace percentages. The self-nanoemulsifying system was prepared using various concentrations of surfactant (Tween 80), co-surfactant (Span 80), and pomegranate seed oil. The selected formulation had a PDI of 0.229 ± 0.09 and a droplet size of 189.44 ± 2.1 nm. The free radical scavenging activity of pomegranate seed oil, the self-emulsifying system, and Trolox was conducted using DPPH. The oil-self-nanoemulsifying system showed potent antioxidant activity compared to Trolox. Also, pomegranate oil inhibited α-amylase with a weak IC50 value of 354.81 ± 2.3 µg/ml. The oil self-nanoemulsifying system showed potent activity compared to acarbose and had a weaker IC50 value (616.59 ± 2.1 µg/ml) and a potent IC50 value (43.65 ± 1.9 µg/ml) compared to orlistat.Pomegranate seed oil self-nanoemulsifying system could be applied in the future for the preparation of possible oral medications for the prevention and treatment of oxidative stress, diabetes, and obesity due to its high activity against free radical, amylase, and lipase enzymes compared to pomegranate seed oil itself and the references used. This study reveals that self-nanoemulsion systems can enhance oil drug formulations by improving pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, acting as drug reservoirs, and facilitating efficient oil release.

Staphylococcus aureus produces large amounts of toxins and virulence factors. In patients with underlying diseases or compromised immune systems, this bacterium can lead to severe infections and potentially death. In this study, the crystal structure of the complex of S. aureus lipase (SAL), which is involved in the growth of this bacterium, with petroselinic acid (PSA), an inhibitor of unsaturated fatty acids, was determined by X‐ray crystallography. Recently, PSA was shown to inhibit S. aureus biofilm formation and the enzymatic activity of SAL. To further characterize the inhibitory mechanism, we determined the half‐inhibitory concentration of SAL by PSA and the crystal structure of the complex. The IC50 of the inhibitory effect of PSA on SAL was 3.4 μm. SAL and PSA inhibitors were co‐crystallized, and diffraction data sets were collected to 2.19 Å resolution at SPring‐8 to determine the crystal structure and elucidate the detailed structural interactions. The results show that the fatty acid moiety of PSA is tightly bound to a hydrophobic pocket extending in two directions around the catalytic residue Ser116. Ser116 was also covalently bonded to the carbon of the unsaturated fatty acid moiety, and an oxyanion hole in SAL stabilized the electrons of the double bond. The difference in inhibitory activity between PSA and ester compounds revealed a structure–activity relationship between SAL and PSA. Additional research is required to further characterize the clinical potential of PSA.

Pomegranate (Punica granatum) is a tree of the Punicaceae family that is widespread all over the world and has several types and therapeutic uses. The current study aimed to investigate the phytochemical compounds by GC analysis and carried out physical characterization of the pomegranate seed oil and its self-nanoemulsifying system. Then antioxidant, anti-diabetic, and anti-lipase activities were investigated for both.The pomegranate seed oil was extracted, and its self-nanoemulsifying system was then prepared. Phytochemical compounds were analyzed by GC, and physical characterization was established of the pomegranate seed oil and its self-nanoemulsifying system. Then antioxidant, anti-diabetic, and anti-lipase activities were investigated for both.The GC–MS analysis revealed that punicic acid, β-eleosteric acid, catalpic acid, α-eleosteric acid, and oleic acid were the most predominant compounds in pomegranate seed oil. Other active compounds like linoleic acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid, and α-linolenic acid were detected in trace percentages. The self-nanoemulsifying system was prepared using various concentrations of surfactant (Tween 80), co-surfactant (Span 80), and pomegranate seed oil. The selected formulation had a PDI of 0.229 ± 0.09 and a droplet size of 189.44 ± 2.1 nm. The free radical scavenging activity of pomegranate seed oil, the self-emulsifying system, and Trolox was conducted using DPPH. The oil-self-nanoemulsifying system showed potent antioxidant activity compared to Trolox. Also, pomegranate oil inhibited α-amylase with a weak IC50 value of 354.81 ± 2.3 µg/ml. The oil self-nanoemulsifying system showed potent activity compared to acarbose and had a weaker IC50 value (616.59 ± 2.1 µg/ml) and a potent IC50 value (43.65 ± 1.9 µg/ml) compared to orlistat.Pomegranate seed oil self-nanoemulsifying system could be applied in the future for the preparation of possible oral medications for the prevention and treatment of oxidative stress, diabetes, and obesity due to its high activity against free radical, amylase, and lipase enzymes compared to pomegranate seed oil itself and the references used. This study reveals that self-nanoemulsion systems can enhance oil drug formulations by improving pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, acting as drug reservoirs, and facilitating efficient oil release. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic low-grade inflammation (CLGI) is associated with obesity and is one of its pathogenetic mechanisms. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS), a component of Gram-negative bacterial cell walls, is the principal cause of CLGI. Studies have found that capsaicin significantly reduces the relative abundance of LPS-producing bacteria. In the present study, TRPV1-knockout (TRPV1−/−) C57BL/6J mice and the intestinal epithelial cell line Caco-2 (TRPV1−/−) were used as models to determine the effect of capsaicin on CLGI and elucidate the mechanism by which it mediates weight loss in vivo and in vitro. We found that the intragastric administration of capsaicin significantly blunted increases in body weight, food intake, blood lipid, and blood glucose in TRPV1−/− mice fed a high-fat diet, suggesting an anti-obesity effect of capsaicin. Capsaicin reduced LPS levels in the intestine by reducing the relative abundance of Proteobacteria such as Helicobacter, Desulfovibrio, and Sutterella. Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) levels decreased following decreases in LPS levels. Then, the local inflammation of the intestine was reduced by reducing the expression of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and interleukin (IL)-6 mediated by TLR4. Attenuating local intestinal inflammation led to the increased expression of tight junction proteins zonula occludens 1 (ZO-1) and occludin and the restoration of the intestinal barrier function. Capsaicin increased the expression of ZO-1 and occludin at the transcriptional and translational levels, thereby increasing trans-endothelial electrical resistance and restoring intestinal barrier function. The restoration of intestinal barrier function decreases intestinal permeability, which reduces the concentration of LPS entering the circulation, and reduced endotoxemia leads to decreased serum concentrations of inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α and IL-6, thereby attenuating CLGI. This study sheds light on the anti-obesity effect of capsaicin and its mechanism by reducing CLGI, increasing our understanding of the anti-obesity effects of capsaicin. It has been confirmed that capsaicin can stimulate the expression of intestinal transmembrane protein ZO-1 and cytoplasmic protein occludin, increase the trans-epithelial electrical resistance value, and repair intestinal barrier function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The research aims to determine the effect of ethanol extract of Elaeocarpus grandiflorus leaves extract as anti-obesity by in vivo and silico computational models. The pre-and -post-tests were carried out on 20 female Wistar rats, divided into 4 groups. The control group (K) received no treatment and the experimental groups were treated with E. grandiflorus extract of 200 mg/kg BW (P1), 400 mg/kg BW (P2), and 800 mg/kg BW (P3) for 14 days. The body weight, abdominal circumference, and abdominal fat mass were measured on Day 1 and Day 15. The results showed differences in body weight (p=0.02), abdominal circumference (p=0.01), and abdominal fat mass (p=0.00). In silico exploration, bioactive compounds of rutin, orientin, luteolin, vitexin, iso orientin, isovitexin, kaempferol, and quercetin were identified, and targeted ELAVL1, IGF1R, CREB1, AKT1, and PIK3R1 of the AMPK signaling pathway that involved in the anti-obesity mechanism. The high binding affinity values was rutin-EVAL1 (-9.3), orientin-ELAVL1 (-8.3), and quercetin-IGFR1 (-8.2). It can be concluded that the ethanol extract of E. grandiflorus leaves has the potential to be developed as an anti-obesity agent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lipolysis is the hydrolysis of triglycerides (TGs), commonly known as fats. Intracellular lipolysis of TG is associated with adipose triglyceride lipase (ATGL), which provides fatty acids during times of metabolic need. The aim of this study was to determine whether Coix lacryma-jobi L. var. ma-yuen Stapf (Coix) sprouts (CS) can alleviate obesity through lipolysis. Overall, we investigated the potential of CS under in vitro and in vivo conditions and confirmed the underlying mechanisms. Huh7 cells were exposed to free fatty acids (FFAs), and C57BL/6J mice were fed a 60% high-fat diet. When FFA were introduced into Huh7 cells, the intracellular TG levels increased within the Huh7 cells. However, CS treatment significantly reduced intracellular TG levels. Furthermore, CS decreased the expression of Pparγ and Srebp1c mRNA and downregulated the mutant Pnpla3 (I148M) mRNA. Notably, CS significantly upregulated ATGL expression. CS treatment at a dose of 200 mg/kg/day resulted in a significant and dose-dependent decrease in body weight gain and epididymal adipose tissue weight. Specifically, the group treated with CS (200 mg/kg/day) exhibited a significant modulation of serum lipid biomarkers. In addition, CS ameliorated histological alterations in both the liver and adipose tissues. In summary, CS efficiently inhibited lipid accumulation through the activation of the lipolytic enzyme ATGL coupled with the suppression of enzymes involved in TG synthesis. Consequently, CS show promise as a potential anti-obesity agent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Obesity is one of the more complicated diseases, it can induce numerous life‐threatening diseases mainly diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, and certain cancers. In this study, we assessed the efficacy of bacoside‐A (a dammarane‐type triterpenoid saponin derived from the plant Bacopa monniera Linn.) on the adipogenesis of 3T3‐L1 preadipocytes. Results of this study illustrated that bacoside‐A decreased the differentiation of 3T3‐L1 cell, as evidenced by diminution of lipid droplets, which contains triglycerides and other lipids. During the differentiation process, transcription factors, which are mainly participating in adipogenesis such us CCAAT/enhancer‐binding protein α (C/EBPα) and C/EBPβ, peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor‐γ (PPARγ), and sterol regulatory element‐binding protein‐1c (SREBP‐1c), expressions were significantly suppressed by bacoside‐A. In addition, bacoside‐A showed a potent reduction in genes precise to adipocytes such as lipoprotein lipase (LPL), fatty acid synthase (FAS), adipocyte fatty acid‐binding protein (FABP4), and leptin expressions. Further, bacoside‐A stimulated the phosphorylation of acetyl CoA carboxylase (ACC) and AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK). These results demonstrated that bacoside‐A has anti‐adipogenic effects by regulating the transcription factors involved in adipocyte differentiation. Therefore, bacoside‐A might be considered as a potent therapeutic agent for alleviating obesity and hyperlipidemia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kombucha tea is a traditional beverage originating from China and has recently gained popularity worldwide. Kombucha tea is produced by the fermentation of tea leaves and is characterized by its beneficial properties and varied chemical content produced during the fermentation process, which includes organic acids, amino acids, vitamins, minerals, and other biologically active compounds. Kombucha tea is often consumed as a health drink to combat obesity and inflammation; however, the bioactive effects of kombucha tea have not been thoroughly researched. In this study, we reveal the underlying mechanisms of the beneficial properties of kombucha tea and how they protect against obesity and inflammation by studying Drosophila models. We established an inflammatory Drosophila model by knocking down the lipid storage droplet‐1 gene, a human perilipin‐1 ortholog. In this model, dysfunction of lipid storage droplet‐1 induces inflammation by enhancing the infiltration of hemocytes into adipose tissues, increasing reactive oxygen species production, elevating levels of proinflammatory cytokines, and promoting the differentiation of hemocytes into macrophages. These processes are regulated by the c‐Jun N‐terminal Kinase (JNK) pathway. Using this unique Drosophila model that mimics mammalian inflammation, we verified the beneficial effects of kombucha tea on reducing tissue inflammation. Our data confirms that kombucha tea effectively improves inflammatory conditions by suppressing the expression of cytokines and proinflammatory responses induced by lipid storage droplet‐1 dysfunction. It was found that kombucha tea consumption alleviated the production of reactive oxygen species and activated the JNK signaling pathway, signifying its potential as an anti‐inflammatory agent against systemic inflammatory responses connected to the JNK pathway. Kombucha tea reduced triglyceride accumulation by increasing the activity of Brummer (a lipase), thereby promoting lipolysis in third‐instar larvae. Therefore, kombucha tea could be developed as a novel, functional beverage to protect against obesity and inflammation. Our study also highlights the potential use of this innovative model to evaluate the effects of bioactive compounds derived from natural products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to assess the effect of fermented fig (Ficus carica L., FF) on obesity and diabetes in a mouse model. FF was cultured with the lactic acid bacterium Lactobacillus plantarum BT-LP-01 and isolated from fig peels. The antioxidant results demonstrated that FF exhibited DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging activities. In addition, FF showed high levels of total polyphenol and total flavonoids. Body and organ weight and dietary intake were significantly decreased in the FF groups compared to the HFD group. The FF group showed improved recovery in lipid metabolism and liver function compared to the HFD group. In addition, the FF group showed a significant decrease in serum C-P and insulin concentrations compared to the HFD group. FF-administered mice showed a dose-dependent recovery of fasting blood glucose and IPGTT and AUC levels compared to the HFD group. Furthermore, FF groups showed a decreased expression in FAS, C/EBPα, and FABP4, as well as significantly increased expression in ACC in the liver. This study demonstrates that FF is effective in reducing and inhibiting adipogenesis as well as lowering body weight, the blood glucose level, and lipid-related factors. These research findings demonstrate that FF is effective in treating obesity and diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lipid metabolism dysregulation can lead to dyslipidemia and obesity, which are major causes of cardiovascular disease and associated mortality worldwide. The purpose of the study was to obtain and characterize six plant extracts (ACE—Allii cepae extractum; RSE—Rosmarini extractum; CHE—Cichorii extractum; CE—Cynarae extractum; AGE—Apii graveolentis extractum; CGE—Crataegi extractum) as promising adjuvant therapies for the prevention and treatment of dyslipidemia and its related metabolic diseases. Phytochemical screening revealed that RSE was the richest extract in total polyphenols (39.62 ± 13.16 g tannic acid/100 g dry extract) and phenolcarboxylic acids (22.05 ± 1.31 g chlorogenic acid/100 g dry extract). Moreover, the spectrophotometric chemical profile highlighted a significant concentration of flavones for CGE (5.32 ± 0.26 g rutoside/100 g dry extract), in contrast to the other extracts. UHPLC-MS quantification detected considerable amounts of phenolic constituents, especially chlorogenic acid in CGE (187.435 ± 1.96 mg/g extract) and rosmarinic acid in RSE (317.100 ± 2.70 mg/g extract). Rosemary and hawthorn extracts showed significantly stronger free radical scavenging activity compared to the other plant extracts (p < 0.05). Pearson correlation analysis and the heatmap correlation matrix indicated significant correlations between phytochemical contents and in vitro antioxidant activities. Computational studies were performed to investigate the potential anti-obesity mechanism of the studied extracts using target prediction, homology modeling, molecular docking, and molecular dynamics approaches. Our study revealed that rosmarinic acid (RA) and chlorogenic acid (CGA) can form stable complexes with the active site of carbonic anhydrase 5A by either interacting with the zinc-bound catalytic water molecule or by directly binding Zn2+. Further studies are warranted to experimentally validate the predicted CA5A inhibitory activities of RA and CGA and to investigate the hypolipidemic and antioxidant activities of the proposed plant extracts in animal models of dyslipidemia and obesity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A large amount of waste material derives from the horticultural industry. These plant matrices constitute a valuable source of active secondary metabolites with a wide spectrum of potential applications, including both human health and veterinary science. Italy is one of the leading European producers of fennel, and the 'Finocchio di Isola Capo Rizzuto' is a protected geographical indication (PGI) product, typical of the Calabria region. In this study, the waste material from this PGI Italian fennel was investigated for the first time as a potential source of bioactive compounds. Both bulbs and aerial parts were extracted with ethanol through maceration, and the phenolic content was assessed, together with the antioxidant properties. Moreover, the nutraceutical value was investigated by evaluating the potential anti-obesity effects. To this end, fennel extracts were studied for their inhibitory effects on pancreatic lipase enzyme, which plays a pivotal role in dietary fat absorption. The aerial part extract demonstrated DPPH radical scavenging (IC50 = 293.13 ± 22.98 µg/mL) and lipid peroxidation inhibitory activities (IC50 = 43.26 ± 1.90 µg/mL), and it was also effective in inhibiting pancreatic lipase (IC50 = 3.51 ± 0.09 mg/mL). Moreover, a significant positive correlation was highlighted between observed biological properties and fennel phenolic constituents. Obtained results show that 'Finocchio di Isola Capo Rizzuto' PGI by-products are a good candidate for further investigations as a potential source of antioxidant and anti-obesity agents useful as functional ingredients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Kaempferia parviflora Wall. ex. Baker (KP) has been reported to exhibit anti-obesity effects. However, the detailed mechanism of the anti-obesity effect of KP extract (KPE) is yet to be clarified. Here, we investigated the effect of KPE and its component polymethoxyflavones (PMFs) on the adipogenic differentiation of human mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). Methods and results: KPE and PMFs fraction (2.5 µg/mL) significantly inhibited lipid and triacylglyceride accumulation in MSCs; lipid accumulation in MSCs was suppressed during the early stages of differentiation (days 0–3) but not during the mid (days 3–7) or late (days 7–14) stages. Treatment with KPE and PMFs fractions significantly suppressed peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPARγ), CCAAT/enhancer binding protein α (C/EBPα), and various adipogenic metabolic factors. Treatment with KPE and PMFs fraction induced the activation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) signaling, and pretreatment with an AMPK signaling inhibitor significantly attenuated KPE- and PMFs fraction-induced suppression of lipid formation. Conclusions: Our findings demonstrate that KPE and PMFs fraction inhibit lipid formation by inhibiting the differentiation of undifferentiated MSCs into adipocyte lineages via AMPK signaling, and this may be the mechanism underlying the anti-obesity effects of KPE and PMFs. Our study lays the foundation for the elucidation of the anti-obesity mechanism of KPE and PMFs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pulses, as an important part of the human diet, can act as a source of high-quality plant proteins. Pulse proteins and their hydrolysates have shown promising results in alleviating metabolic syndrome and modulating the gut microbiome. Their bioactivities have become a focus of research, with many new findings added in recent studies. This paper comprehensively reviews the anti-hypertension, anti-hyperglycemia, anti-dyslipidemia and anti-obesity bioactivities of pulse proteins and their hydrolysates in recent in vitro and in vivo studies, which show great potential for the prevention and treatment of metabolic syndrome. In addition, pulse proteins and their hydrolysates can regulate the gut microbiome, which in turn can have a positive impact on the treatment of metabolic syndrome. Furthermore, the beneficial effects of some pulse proteins and their hydrolysates on metabolic syndrome have been supported by clinical studies. This review might provide a reference for the application of pulse proteins and their hydrolysates in functional foods or nutritional supplements for people with metabolic syndrome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The historical use of Laurus nobilis L., the plant is native to the Mediterranean region and has been cultivated for its aromatic leaves, which are used as a flavoring agent in cooking and for their potential therapeutic properties. Methods: The purpose of the current investigation was to characterize the essential oil composition of the fresh L. nobilis leaves from Palestine by using the gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) technique. DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl), p-nitrophenyl butyrate, and 3,5-dinitro salicylic acid (DNSA) methods were employed to estimate the antioxidant, antiobesity, and antidiabetic effects of the essential oil. While MTS assay were used to evaluate their antiproliferative activities on panels of cell lines. Moreover, the docking studies were aided by the Prime MM GBSA method for estimating binding affinities. Results: The GC-MS investigation demonstrated that the fresh L. nobilis leaves essential oil has a variety of chemicals, about 31 different biochemicals were identified, and the major compounds were 1,8-cineole (48.54 ± 0.91%), terpinyl acetate (13.46 ± 0.34%), and α-terpinyl (3.84 ± 0.35%). Furthermore, the investigated oil demonstrated broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against all tested bacterial and candidal strains and significantly inhibited the growth of MCF-7 cancerous cells more than the chemotherapeutic drug Doxorubicin. Furthermore, it contains robust DPPH free radicals, as well as porcine pancreatic α-amylase and lipase enzymes. Using the 1,8-cineole compound as the predominant biomolecule found in the L. nobilis essential oil, molecular docking studies were performed to confirm these observed fabulous results. The molecular docking simulations proposed that these recorded biological activities almost emanated from its high ability to form strong and effective hydrophobic interactions, this led to the getting of optimal fitting and interaction patterns within the binding sites of the applied crystallographic protein targets. Conclusion: The results of these experiments showed that the fresh L. nobilis leaves essential oil has outstanding pharmacological capabilities, making this oil a potential source of natural medications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Obesity has become a pandemic, as currently more than half a billion people worldwide are obese. The etiology of obesity is multifactorial, and combines a contribution of hereditary and behavioral factors, such as nutritional inadequacy, along with the influences of environment and reduced physical activity. Two types of adipose tissue widely known are white and brown. While white adipose tissue functions predominantly as a key energy storage, brown adipose tissue has a greater mass of mitochondria and expresses the uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1) gene, which allows thermogenesis and rapid catabolism. Even though white and brown adipocytes are of different origin, activation of the brown adipocyte differentiation program in white adipose tissue cells forces them to transdifferentiate into "beige" adipocytes, characterized by thermogenesis and intensive lipolysis. Nowadays, researchers in the field of small molecule medicinal chemistry and gene therapy are making efforts to develop new drugs that effectively overcome insulin resistance and counteract obesity. Here, we discuss various aspects of white-to-beige conversion, adipose tissue catabolic re-activation, and non-shivering thermogenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Obesity is a growing epidemic worldwide. Several pharmacologic drugs are being used to treat obesity but these medicines exhibit side effects. To find out the alternatives of these drugs, we aimed to assess the probiotic properties and anti-obesity potentiality of a lactic acid bacterium E2_MCCKT, isolated from a traditional fermented rice beverage, haria. Based on the 16S rRNA sequencing, the bacterium was identified as Lactiplantibacillus plantarum E2_MCCKT. The bacterium exhibited in vitro probiotic activity in terms of high survivability in an acidic environment and 2% bile salt, moderate auto-aggregation, and hydrophobicity. Later, E2_MCCKT was applied to obese mice to prove its anti-obesity potentiality. Adult male mice (15.39 ± 0.19 g) were randomly divided into three groups (n = 5) according to the type of diet: normal diet (ND), high-fat diet (HFD), and HFD supplemented with E2_MCCKT (HFT). After four weeks of bacterial treatment on the obese mice, a significant reduction of body weight, triglyceride, and cholesterol levels, whereas, improvements in serum glucose levels were observed. The bacterial therapy led to mRNA up-regulation of lipolytic transcription factors such as peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-α which may increase the expression of fatty acid oxidation-related genes such as acyl-CoA oxidase and carnitine palmitoyl-transferase-1. Concomitantly, both adipocytogenesis and fatty acid synthesis were arrested as reflected by the down-regulation of sterol-regulatory element-binding protein-1c, acetyl-CoA carboxylase, and fatty acid synthase genes. In protein expression study, E2_MCCKT significantly increased IL-10 expression while decreasing pro-inflammatory cytokine (IL-1Ra and TNF-α) expression. In conclusion, the probiotic Lp. plantarum E2_MCCKT might have significant anti-obesity effects on mice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Staphylococcus aureus produces large amounts of toxins and virulence factors. In patients with underlying diseases or compromised immune systems, this bacterium can lead to severe infections and potentially death. In this study, the crystal structure of the complex of S. aureus lipase (SAL), which is involved in the growth of this bacterium, with petroselinic acid (PSA), an inhibitor of unsaturated fatty acids, was determined by X‐ray crystallography. Recently, PSA was shown to inhibit S. aureus biofilm formation and the enzymatic activity of SAL. To further characterize the inhibitory mechanism, we determined the half‐inhibitory concentration of SAL by PSA and the crystal structure of the complex. The IC50 of the inhibitory effect of PSA on SAL was 3.4 μm. SAL and PSA inhibitors were co‐crystallized, and diffraction data sets were collected to 2.19 Å resolution at SPring‐8 to determine the crystal structure and elucidate the detailed structural interactions. The results show that the fatty acid moiety of PSA is tightly bound to a hydrophobic pocket extending in two directions around the catalytic residue Ser116. Ser116 was also covalently bonded to the carbon of the unsaturated fatty acid moiety, and an oxyanion hole in SAL stabilized the electrons of the double bond. The difference in inhibitory activity between PSA and ester compounds revealed a structure–activity relationship between SAL and PSA. Additional research is required to further characterize the clinical potential of PSA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The majority of bioactive polysaccharides are present in some marine creatures. These polysaccharides are considered as promising anti-obesity agents, their anti-obesity properties involve a number of mechanisms, including suppression of lipid metabolism and absorption, impact on satiety, and prevention of adipocyte diferentiation. Obesity is linked to type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and other metabolic syndromes. In this review various bioactive polysaccharides like chitin, chitosan, fucosylated chondroitin sulphate, chitooligosaccharides and glycosaminoglycans have been discussed for their anti-obesity efects through various pathways. Critical evaluation of observational studies and intervention trials on obesity, lipid hypertrophy, dyslipidemia, and type 2 diabetes was done with a primary focus on specifc marine fauna polysaccharide as a source of seafood that is consumed all over the world. It has been observed that consumption of individual seafood constituents was efective in reducing obesity. Thus, marine derived novel bioactive polysaccharides have potential applications in food and pharmaceutical industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Excess adiposity represents a risk factor for chronic kidney disease (CKD) and progression to end‐stage kidney disease. Anti‐Obesity Medications (AOMs) are vastly underutilized in patients with advanced CKD because of concerns related to safety and efficacy. This study was conducted to evaluate the real‐world approach to weight management and the efficacy and safety of AOMs in people with advanced CKD. Methods: This is a retrospective analysis of individuals with Body Mass Index (BMI) ≥ 27 kg/m2 and eGFR ≤ 30 mL/min/1.73 m2 referred to an academic medical weight‐management program between 01/2015 and 09/2022. Evaluation of weight‐management approaches, body weight change, treatment‐related side effects, and reasons for treatment discontinuation were reported. Results: Eighty‐nine patients met inclusion criteria, 16 were treated with intensive lifestyle modifications (ILM) alone and 73 with AOMs (all treated with glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonist [GLP1‐RA] +/− other AOMs) along with ILM. Patients treated with AOMs had a longer duration of on‐treatment follow‐up (median 924 days) compared to (93 days) the ILM group. Over 75% of patients treated with AOMs lost ≥5% body weight versus 25% of those treated with ILM. Only 15% of patients treated with AOMs discontinued therapy due to treatment‐related side effects. Conclusion: In patients with obesity and advanced CKD, GLP‐1RA‐based anti‐obesity treatment was well‐tolerated, effective, and led to durable weight reduction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we prepared fermented products of isoflavone-enriched soybean leaves (IESLs) and analyzed their nutrients, isoflavones, anti-obesity efficacy, and effects on gut microbiota. Fermented IESLs (FIESLs) were found to be rich in nutrients, especially lauric acid, oleic acid, and linoleic acid. In addition, the concentrations of most essential free amino acids were increased compared to those of IESLs. The contents of bioactive compounds, such as total phenolic, total flavonoid, daidzein, and genistein, significantly increased as well. In addition, FIESLs administration in a high-fat diet (HFD) animal model improved the final body weight, epididymal fat, total lipid, triglyceride, total cholesterol, blood glucose, and leptin levels, as well as reverting microbiota dysbiosis. In conclusion, these findings indicate that FIESLs have the potential to inhibit obesity caused by HFDs and serve as a modulator of gut microbiota, offering the prevention of diet-induced gut dysbiosis and metabolite diseases associated with obesity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Investigating the intricate pathways through which FH06 fermentation broth exerts lipid-lowering and weight-loss effects is pivotal for advancing our comprehension of metabolic regulation and therapeutic interventions. Ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography quadrupole electrostatic field orbit trap mass spectrometry (UHPLC-QE-MS) detection and the ChEMBL database were used to determine the effective compounds in the FH06 fermentation broth and predict their targets. The TTD database and DisGeNET database were used to query obesity-related targets. The STRING database was used to construct protein interaction information. The Gene Ontology (GO) database and the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) database were used to perform biological function annotation (GO) and KEGG pathway enrichment analyses of the targets. Results: A total of 85 effective compounds were screened from the fermentation broth of FH06; these compounds may act on TP53, PPARG, TNF, and other targets through 10 signaling pathways, such as the chemical carcinogenesis-receptor activation and lipid and atherosclerosis pathways, and exert pharmacological effects, such as hypoglycemic effects and weight loss. They also have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antitumor, and immunoregulatory effects. These findings reveal the active ingredients of FH06 fermentation broth and its multi-target and multi-channel characteristics in lipid lowering and weight loss. This study has positive implications for the clinical treatment of obesity using FH06, providing a theoretical and scientific basis for further developing of FH06-assisted lipid-lowering products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The potential health-promoting effects of two edible seaweeds, Undaria pinnatifida sporophyll (UPS) and Gracilaria verrucosa (GV), were investigated by using in vitro and in vivo models. Water extracts of UPS and GV inhibited lipid accumulation in 3T3-L1 adipocytes by downregulating adipogenesis-related genes and stimulated lipolysis in mature adipocytes. In C57BL/6 mice, supplementation with UPS and GV powders ameliorated diet-induced obesity, insulin resistance, and systemic inflammation, resulting in lighter subcutaneous adipose tissue and decreased macrophage markers (F4/80, Cd11c, Cd206) and proinflammatory genes (Tnf-α, Il-1β, Il-6, Ccl2) in gonadal adipose tissue. Liver weight and hepatic triglyceride levels were also significantly lowered. Taken together, UPS and GV supplementation effectively prevented diet-induced obesity and chronic inflammation making them promising dietary ingredients for managing obesity and its associated disorders.

Interactions between the gut, adipose, and liver tissues play important roles in metabolic endotoxemia and gut dysbiosis. This study explored the effectiveness of Curcuma longa rhizome extract (CRE) in improving high-fat diet (HFD)-induced metabolic disorders and modulating gut environments. CRE treatment inhibited lipid accumulation in 3T3-L1 white adipocytes and activated thermogenesis-related genes in T37i brown adipocytes. CRE was administered to HFD-fed mice for 8 weeks, and serum, feces, colon, white adipose, and liver tissue were analyzed. CRE ameliorated the symptoms of metabolic disorders in mice with HFD-induced obesity by suppressing body weight and fat mass gain, adipocyte size, insulin resistance, and hepatic steatosis. CRE regulated gut axis-based mechanisms by inhibiting gut permeability, metabolic endotoxemia, and de novo lipogenesis, and promoting gut barrier integrity. Serum metabolites were negatively correlated with most biomarkers for metabolic disorders. Therefore, CRE could alleviate metabolic disorders by improving the intestinal environment and modulating the gut axis.

Repositioning of FDA approved/clinical phase drugs has recently opened a new opportunity for rapid approval of drugs, as it shortens the overall process of drug discovery and development. In previous studies, we predicted the possibility of better activity profiles of flavopiridol, the FDA approved orphan drug with better fit value 2.79 using a common feature pharmacophore model for anti-adipogenic compounds (CFMPA). The present study aimed to investigate the effect of flavopiridol on adipocyte differentiation and to determine the underlying mechanism. Flavopiridol inhibited adipocyte differentiation in different cell models like 3T3-L1, C3H10T1/2, and hMSCs at 150 nM. Flavopiridol was around 135 times more potent than its parent molecule rohitukine. The effect was mediated through down-regulation of key transcription factors of adipogenesis i.e. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ), CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein alpha (C/EBPα), and their downstream targets, including adipocyte protein −2 (aP2) and fatty acid synthase (FAS). Further, results revealed that flavopiridol arrested the cell cycle in G1/S phase during mitotic clonal expansion by suppressing cell cycle regulatory proteins i.e. Cyclins and CDKs. Flavopiridol inhibited insulin-stimulated signalling in the early phase of adipocyte differentiation by downregulation of AKT/mTOR pathway. In addition, flavopiridol improved mitochondrial function in terms of increased oxygen consumption rate (OCR) in mature adipocytes. In the mouse model of diet-induced obesity, flavopiridol attenuated obesity-associated adipose tissue inflammation and improved serum lipid profile, glucose tolerance as well as insulin sensitivity. In conclusion, the FDA approved drug flavopiridol could be placed as a potential drug candidate for the treatment of cancer and obesity comorbid patients.

This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of Allium hookeri (AH) leaves cultivated with different light-emitting diode (LED) intensities (L: low, 100 μmol/m2/s; M: medium, 150 μmol/m2/s; H: high, 200 μmol/m2/s). Alliin concentration increased as light intensity increased in AH and showed the highest level at LED-H condition. The anti-obesity and immunomodulatory properties of AH were evaluated in a cyclophosphamide (CPA)-induced immunosuppressed obese animal model. C57BL/6 J mice were randomly divided into control (CON), high-fat diet (HFD) control (CON-H), negative control (NC), positive control (PC, β-glucan, 50 mg/kg body weight (BW)), AH L, M, and H groups. The three kinds of AH extracts were orally administered to the mice at 300 mg/kg BW for 2 weeks. Except for CON and CON-H, all the other groups were intraperitoneally treated with CPA. Epididymal and abdominal fat weight decreased as LED intensity increased while spleen weight increased in the AH groups. Serum glucose decreased as LED intensity increased in the AH groups and H group showed the lowest level. Triglycerides, total, and LDL-cholesterol levels decreased while HDL-cholesterol level increased in the AH groups compared to the NC group. Moreover, AH effectively reduced serum ALT and AST levels and increased the total white blood cell count, particularly elevating lymphocyte and monocyte levels. Furthermore, NK cell activity was higher in the AH groups. These findings suggest that AH cultivated at optimal LED intensity could be used as a novel biomedicine and in pharmacotherapy to treat related diseases to improve public health without any toxicity.

Abstract Background Nuciferine (NUC), a natural compound extracted from lotus leaves, has been proven to have anti‐obesity effects. However, the development and application of NUC as an anti‐obesity drug in dogs are hindered due to its poor water solubility and low bioavailability. Objective To promote the development of NUC‐related products for anti‐obesity in dogs, this study prepared NUC into a liposome formulation and evaluated its characteristics, pharmacokinetics in dogs, and anti‐obesity effects on high‐fat diet dogs. Methods NUC liposomes were prepared by the ethanol injection method, using NUC, egg lecithin, and β‐sitosterol as raw materials. The characteristics and release rate in vitro of liposomes were evaluated by particle size analyser and dialysis method, respectively. The pharmacokinetics in dogs after oral administration of NUC‐liposomes was carried out by the high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method. Moreover, we investigated the anti‐obesity effect of NUC‐liposomes on obese dogs fed with a high‐fat diet. Results NUC‐liposome was successfully prepared, with an EE of (79.31 ± 1.06)%, a particle size of (81.25 ± 3.14) nm, a zeta potential of (–18.75 ± 0.23) mV, and a PDI of 0.175 ± 0.031. The cumulative release rate in vitro of NUC from NUC‐liposomes was slower than that of NUC. The T1/2 and relative bioavailability of NUC‐liposomes in dogs increased, and CL reduced compared with NUC. In addition, the preventive effect of NUC‐liposomes on obesity in high‐fat diet dogs is stronger than that of NUC. Conclusions The liposome formulation of NUC was conducive to improve its relative bioavailability and anti‐obesity effect in dogs.

Abstract This study aimed to investigate the anti‐obesity mechanisms of rice bran total dietary fiber (RDF), rice bran insoluble DF (RIDF), and rice bran soluble DF (RSDF) from defatted rice bran. RDF, RIDF, and RSDF exhibited excellent anti‐obesity effects, mainly reflected in lipid adsorption in vitro, reduction of body weight, inhibition of adipose tissue accumulation, improvement of dyslipidemia, and repair of histopathological damage. More importantly, the analysis of multi‐omics results revealed that the regulation of intestinal microbiota, amino acid metabolism, and lipid metabolism were the critical pathways for the anti‐obesity effects of RDF, RIDF, and RSDF. However, RIDF was involved in lipid metabolism through alanine, aspartate, and glutamate metabolism and exhibited a more favorable regulatory effect on gut microbiota. In contrast, RSDF impacted metabolic pathways dominated by tryptophan and cholesterol metabolism and excelled in immune and inflammatory amelioration. RIDF and RSDF together constitute RDF, with the latter integrating the tendencies of RIDF and RSDF in terms of intestinal microbiota and hepatic gene expression. However, RDF exhibited significant differences in metabolic regulation compared to RIDF and RSDF, particularly concerning tryptophan metabolism. These findings demonstrated that RIDF and RSDF have distinct mechanisms in obesity management, and that both contributed differently to the anti‐obesity effect of RDF. This study provides experimental evidence for the development of different types of DF from defatted rice bran as personalized anti‐obesity dietary supplements. It also offers new insights for future precision nutrition interventions involving DF.

Objective: To investigate the active components, protein targets, and mechanisms underlying the anti-obesity effects of Hippophae fructus using network pharmacology and molecular docking techniques, and to validate its in vitro anti-obesity efficacy. Methods: The TCMSP platform was utilized to retrieve the active components and targets of Hippophae fructus, and disease targets were collected. Venny 2.0.2 was used to identify the intersection of targets between Hippophae fructus and obesity-related targets. The STRING database was used to establish a drug-target-disease protein interaction (PPI) network. The intersecting targets were analyzed using the David database to perform GO enrichment analysis and KEGG pathway analysis. Cytoscape 3.9.1 was used to construct a network diagram of the components of Hippophae fructus, anti-obesity targets, and related signaling pathways. Autodock Dock 1.5.7 and Pymol 2.2.0 were used to carry out molecular docking between the core targets of Hippophae fructus and its components, followed by visualization. The in vitro anti-obesity effect of Hippophae fructus extract was evaluated through cell experiments using 3T3-L1 cells. Results: A total of 33 active components, 2820 disease targets, and 151 intersection targets of Hippophae fructus were identified. The main active components included flavonoids, vitamins, and sterols, while key targets involved AKT1, TNF, IL6, TP53, VEGFA, CASP3, and others. KEGG pathway enrichment analysis revealed 131 signaling pathways, including those related to malignant tumors, lipid and atherosclerosis, and AGE-RAGE signaling. Molecular docking results demonstrated favorable binding interactions between the core targets and the corresponding active components of Hippophae fructus. The in vitro experiments indicated that Hippophae fructus extract exhibited inhibitory effects on the proliferation of 3T3-L1 pre-adipocytes. Conclusion: This study reveals that Hippophae fructus exerts anti-obesity effects through multiple components, targets, and pathways, providing valuable insights for its clinical research and product development.

Diosgenin (DG), a well-known steroidal sapogenin, is abundantly found in the plants of the Dioscoreaceae family and exhibits diverse pharmacological properties. In our previous study, we demonstrated that DG supplementation protected Caenorhabditis elegans from high glucose-induced lipid deposition, oxidative damage, and lifespan reduction. Nevertheless, the precise biological mechanisms underlying the beneficial effects of DG have not yet been described. In this context, the present study aims to elucidate how DG reduces molecular and cellular declines induced by high glucose, using the powerful genetics of the C. elegans model. Treatment with DG significantly (p < 0.01) prevented fat accumulation and extended lifespan under high-glucose conditions without affecting physiological functions. DG-induced lifespan extension was found to rely on longevity genes daf-2, daf-16, skn-1, glp-1, eat-2, let-363, and pha-4. Specifically, DG regulates lipophagy, the autophagy-mediated degradation of lipid droplets, in C. elegans, thereby inhibiting fat accumulation. Furthermore, DG treatment did not alter the triglyceride levels in the fat-6 and fat-7 single mutants and fat-6;fat-7 double mutants, indicating the significant role of stearoyl-CoA desaturase genes in mediating the reduction of fat deposition by DG. Our results provide new insight into the fat-reducing mechanisms of DG, which might develop into a multitarget drug for preventing obesity and associated health complications; however, preclinical studies are required to investigate the effect of DG on higher models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Obesity is primarily exacerbated by excessive lipid accumulation during adipogenesis, with triacylglycerol (TG) as a major lipid marker. However, as the association between numerous lipid markers and various health conditions has recently been revealed, investigating the lipid metabolism in detail has become necessary. This study investigates the lipid metabolic effects of Hydrangea serrata (Thunb.) Ser. hot water leaf extract (WHS) on adipogenesis using LC-MS-based lipidomics analysis of undifferentiated, differentiated, and WHS-treated differentiated 3T3-L1 cells. WHS treatment effectively suppressed the elevation of glycerolipids, including TG and DG, and prevented a molecular shift in fatty acyl composition towards long-chain unsaturated fatty acids. This shift also impacted glycerophospholipid metabolism. Additionally, WHS stabilized significant lipid markers such as the PC/PE and LPC/PE ratios, SM, and Cer, which are associated with obesity and related comorbidities. This study suggests that WHS could reduce obesity-related risk factors by regulating lipid markers during adipogenesis. This study is the first to assess the underlying lipidomic mechanisms of the adipogenesis-inhibitory effect of WHS, highlighting its potential in developing natural products for treating obesity and related conditions. Our study provides a new strategy for the development of natural products for the treatment of obesity and related diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]