Clinically Effective Molecules of Natural Origin for Obesity Prevention or Treatment
Gladys Maribel Hidalgo-Lozada1, Angelica Villarruel-López2, Karla Nuño3
1Institute of Science and Technology for Health Innovation, Guadalajara 44770, Mexico.
Abstract:
The prevalence and incidence of obesity and the comorbidities linked to it are increasing worldwide. Current therapies for obesity and associated pathologies have proven to cause a broad number of adverse effects, and often, they are overpriced or not affordable for all patients. Among the alternatives currently available, natural bioactive compounds stand out. These are frequently contained in pharmaceutical presentations, nutraceutical products, supplements, or functional foods. The clinical evidence for these molecules is increasingly solid, among which epigallocatechin-3-gallate, ellagic acid, resveratrol, berberine, anthocyanins, probiotics, carotenoids, curcumin, silymarin, hydroxy citric acid, and α-lipoic acid stand out. The molecular mechanisms and signaling pathways of these molecules have been shown to interact with the endocrine, nervous, and gastroenteric systems. They can regulate the expression of multiple genes and proteins involved in starvation-satiety processes, activate the brown adipose tissue, decrease lipogenesis and inflammation, increase lipolysis, and improve insulin sensitivity. This review provides a comprehensive view of nature-based therapeutic options to address the increasing prevalence of obesity. It offers a valuable perspective for future research and subsequent clinical practice, addressing everything from the molecular, genetic, and physiological bases to the clinical study of bioactive compounds.
Insights
Natural bioactive compounds offer promising alternatives for obesity management. These compounds, found in supplements and foods, show potential for treating obesity and related conditions with fewer side effects than traditional therapies.
Area of Science:
- Nutritional Science
- Pharmacology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Global rise in obesity and associated comorbidities presents a significant health challenge.
- Existing obesity therapies often have adverse effects, high costs, and limited accessibility.
- Natural bioactive compounds are emerging as viable therapeutic alternatives.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive review of nature-based therapeutic options for obesity.
- To explore the molecular mechanisms and clinical evidence of various bioactive compounds.
- To offer insights for future research and clinical application in obesity management.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature review of clinical studies and molecular research on bioactive compounds.
- Analysis of signaling pathways and gene expression related to obesity.
- Evaluation of evidence for compounds such as epigallocatechin-3-gallate, resveratrol, and curcumin.
Main Results:
- Bioactive compounds interact with endocrine, nervous, and gastroenteric systems.
- Mechanisms include regulating starvation-satiety, activating brown adipose tissue, and improving insulin sensitivity.
- Compounds like epigallocatechin-3-gallate, ellagic acid, resveratrol, and berberine show significant therapeutic potential.
Conclusions:
- Nature-based compounds offer a promising, potentially safer, and more accessible approach to obesity treatment.
- Further research into molecular, genetic, and physiological bases is warranted.
- These findings support the integration of bioactive compounds into future clinical practice for obesity.
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