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Effect of Thai Herbal Remedy NL Inhibits Lipid Accumulation on 3T3-L1 Adipocyte Cells
Sakan Warinhomhoun1,2,3, Kittikun Viwatpinyo2,3, Nuttikarn Nokkaew3,4
1College of Oriental Medicine, Rangsit University, Pathum Thani 12000, Thailand.
Abstract:
Obesity is a global health concern, steadily rising and posing risks to various health conditions. Despite available antiobesity drugs, their withdrawal due to severe side effects highlights the need for safer alternatives. Natural products, particularly mixed herbal formulations, present a promising avenue in obesity research. This study aimed to investigate the potential antiobesity effects of the NL herbal formula, a traditional remedy in Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand, composed of nine herbs. The specific focus was on the inhibitory effects on α-glucosidase and pancreatic lipase enzyme activities, adipogenesis inhibition and lipolysis promotion. NL extract was phytochemically analyzed and assessed for its inhibitory effects on α-glucosidase and pancreatic lipase. Its impact on lipid accumulation and glycerol release was also evaluated. Phytochemical analysis using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC/MS-MS) identified piperine as the major compound in the NL extract. NL extract exhibited significant inhibition of α-glucosidase, moderate pancreatic lipase inhibition, and dose-dependent reduction in fat accumulation and triglyceride content. Glycerol release increased compared to the control, indicating potential benefits in weight management. This research underscores the potential of the NL formula in combating obesity through its effects on adipogenesis, lipolysis, and enzyme activities. Further investigations into the molecular mechanisms are warranted to fully elucidate its therapeutic potential.
Insights
The NL herbal formula shows potential for weight management by inhibiting key enzymes and reducing fat accumulation. This natural remedy offers a promising alternative for obesity, warranting further research into its mechanisms.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology and Ethnobotany
- Natural Product Chemistry
- Metabolic Research
Background:
- Obesity is a growing global health issue with limited safe treatment options.
- Existing antiobesity drugs often have severe side effects, necessitating safer alternatives.
- Natural products, especially herbal mixtures, are increasingly explored for weight management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the antiobesity potential of the NL herbal formula, a traditional Thai remedy.
- To investigate the formula's effects on alpha-glucosidase and pancreatic lipase.
- To assess its impact on adipogenesis and lipolysis.
Main Methods:
- Phytochemical analysis of NL extract using LC/MS-MS.
- In vitro assays for alpha-glucosidase and pancreatic lipase inhibition.
- In vitro evaluation of lipid accumulation and glycerol release in adipocytes.
Main Results:
- Piperine was identified as a major compound in the NL extract.
- NL extract significantly inhibited alpha-glucosidase and moderately inhibited pancreatic lipase.
- The extract reduced fat accumulation and triglyceride content, while promoting glycerol release.
Conclusions:
- The NL herbal formula demonstrates promising antiobesity effects via enzyme inhibition and modulation of fat metabolism.
- Its potential benefits in weight management warrant further investigation into molecular mechanisms.
- This natural formula represents a potential therapeutic strategy for obesity.
