Fucoidan antagonizes diet-induced obesity and inflammation in mice
Lei Wang1, Kun Zhang1, Xin Ding1
1Key Laboratory of Targeted Intervention of Cardiovascular Disease, CollaborativeInnovation Center for Cardiovascular Disease Translational Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 211166, China.
Abstract:
Obesity is an escalating global pandemic posing a serious threat to human health. The intervention therapy using weight-reducing drugs, accompanied by lifestyle modification, is a strategy for the treatment of obesity. In the present study, we explored the role of fucoidan, a seaweed compound, on high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obesity in mice. We found that fucoidan treatment significantly reduced the body fat and caused redistribution of visceral and subcutaneous fat in HFD-fed mice. Meanwhile, fucoidan treatment inhibited adipocyte hypertrophy and inflammation in adipose tissue. Collectively, these results suggest that fucoidan may be a promising treatment for obesity and obesity-induced complications.
Insights
Fucoidan, a seaweed compound, effectively reduced body fat and fat cell inflammation in mice with diet-induced obesity. This suggests fucoidan as a potential natural treatment for obesity and related health issues.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Nutrition Science
- Marine Biotechnology
Background:
- Obesity is a major global health concern requiring effective interventions.
- Current obesity treatments often involve medication and lifestyle changes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the anti-obesity effects of fucoidan, a compound derived from seaweed.
- To determine fucoidan's impact on high-fat diet-induced obesity in a mouse model.
Main Methods:
- Mice were fed a high-fat diet (HFD) to induce obesity.
- Fucoidan was administered to HFD-fed mice.
- Body fat mass, fat distribution, adipocyte size, and adipose tissue inflammation were analyzed.
Main Results:
- Fucoidan treatment significantly decreased overall body fat in HFD-fed mice.
- Fucoidan promoted a healthier redistribution of visceral and subcutaneous fat.
- Inhibition of adipocyte hypertrophy and inflammation in adipose tissue was observed.
Conclusions:
- Fucoidan demonstrates significant potential as a therapeutic agent for combating obesity.
- Fucoidan may help manage obesity-related complications by reducing fat accumulation and inflammation.
