Bioactive compounds from Prosthechea karwinskii decrease obesity, insulin resistance, pro-inflammatory status, and
Gabriela Soledad Barragán-Zarate1, Alfonso Alexander-Aguilera2, Luicita Lagunez-Rivera1
1Laboratorio de Extracción y Análisis de Productos Naturales Vegetales. Centro Interdisciplinario de Investigación para el Desarrollo Integral Regional Unidad Oaxaca, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Hornos 1003, Santa Cruz Xoxocotlán, C.P. 71230, Oaxaca, Mexico.
Journal of Ethnopharmacology
|June 28, 2021
Summary
Prosthechea karwinskii leaf extract effectively combats metabolic syndrome (MS) in rats, reducing obesity, insulin resistance, and inflammation. This orchid extract shows promise as a natural alternative for managing MS-related health issues.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Ethnobotany
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Prosthechea karwinskii, an orchid endemic to Mexico, is traditionally used for managing diabetes and inflammation.
- Previous research indicates its potential to lower glucose, cholesterol, and triglyceride levels in rats with induced metabolic syndrome (MS).
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of P. karwinskii leaf extract on key metabolic syndrome components in a Wistar rat model.
- To identify the specific bioactive compounds within the extract responsible for these effects.
Main Methods:
- Metabolic syndrome was induced in Wistar rats using a high-sucrose diet.
- Rats were treated with varying doses of P. karwinskii extract or metformin.
- Body weight, fat deposits, and serum markers (glucose, insulin, lipids, adiponectin, inflammatory cytokines) were analyzed.
Main Results:
- The extract contained bioactive compounds like quinic acid, chlorogenic acid, and rutin.
- A dose of 300 mg/kg P. karwinskii extract significantly reduced weight gain, fat accumulation, and insulin resistance.
- Triglyceride, TNF-α, and HS-CRP levels normalized, while adiponectin levels increased.
Conclusions:
- P. karwinskii extract (300 mg/kg) demonstrates anti-obesity, insulin-sensitizing, and anti-inflammatory effects in a rat model of MS.
- The identified bioactive compounds likely contribute to the observed therapeutic benefits, acting synergistically.
- P. karwinskii extract presents a potential natural alternative for managing metabolic syndrome.
