Suppression by licorice flavonoids of abdominal fat accumulation and body weight gain in high-fat diet-induced obese C57BL/6J mice

Effects of licorice extract in combination with a low-calorie diet on obesity indices, glycemic indices, and lipid profiles in overweight/obese women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common ovarian dysfunction. Recent studies showed the effectiveness of licorice on metabolic profiles with inconsistent findings. So, we investigated the effect of licorice on obesity indices, glycemic indices, and lipid profiles in women with PCOS.

METHODS

This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was performed on 66 overweight/obese women with PCOS. The participants were randomly assigned to receive either 1.5 gr/day licorice extract plus a low-calorie diet (n = 33) or placebo plus a low-calorie diet (n = 33) for 8 weeks. Participants' anthropometric indices and body composition were assessed using standard protocols. Fasting blood sugar (FBS), insulin levels, low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C), total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), and high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C) were measured using enzymatic kits. The homeostasis model assessment-insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) and HOMA of β-cell function (HOMA-B) were calculated using valid formulas.

RESULTS

Between-group comparisons demonstrated significant differences between the groups in terms of obesity indices (body weight, BMI, and body fat), lipid profiles (TG, TC, LDL-C, and HDL-C), FBS and insulin levels, HOMA-IR, and HOMA-B at the end of the study (P < 0.05). Supplementation with licorice plus a low-calorie diet was also more effective in improving all parameters than a low-calorie diet alone after adjusting for confounders (baseline values, age, weight changes, and physical activity changes) (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The findings showed that licorice consumption leads to improvements in obesity indices, glucose homeostasis, and lipid profiles compared to placebo. Due to possible limitations of the study, further research is needed to confirm these findings.

Polyphenols mediated attenuation of diabetes associated cardiovascular complications: A comprehensive review

Background

Diabetes mellitus is a common chronic metabolic disorder that is characterized by increased levels of glucose for prolonged periods of time. Incessant hyperglycemia leads to diabetic complications such as retinopathy, nephropathy, and neuropathy, and cardiovascular complications such as ischemic heart disease, peripheral vascular disease, diabetic cardiomyopathy, stroke, etc. There are many studies that suggest that various polyphenols affect glucose homeostasis and can help to attenuate the complications associated with diabetes.

Objective

This review focuses on the possible role of various dietary polyphenols in palliating diabetes-induced cardiovascular complications. This review also aims to give an overview of the interrelationship among ROS production (due to diabetes), inflammation, glycoxidative stress, and cardiovascular complications as well as the anti-hyperglycemic effects of dietary polyphenols.

Methods

Various scientific databases including Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, PubMed, Science Direct, Springer Link, and Wiley Online Library were used for searching articles that complied with the inclusion and exclusion criteria.

Results

This review lists several polyphenols based on various pre-clinical and clinical studies that have anti-hyperglycemic potential as well as a protective function against cardiovascular complications.

Conclusion

Several pre-clinical and clinical studies suggest that various dietary polyphenols can be a promising intervention for the attenuation of diabetes-associated cardiovascular complications.

Advancements in the management of obesity: a review of current evidence and emerging therapies

INTRODUCTION

Obesity is the modern world's current epidemic, with substantial health and economic impact. This study aimed to provide a narrative overview of the past, currently available, and future treatment options that offer therapeutic and preventive advantages for obesity management.

AREAS COVERED

Historically, rimonabant, and lorcaserin, were approved and used for managing non-syndromic obesity. Currently, orlistat, naltrexone/bupropion, glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1 RA), and a few promising therapeutic agents are under investigation, including retatrutide, cagrilintide and orforglipron, which show promising weight reduction effects. We have developed a search string of the Medical Subject Headings (MeSH), including the terms GLP-1 RAs, obesity, and weight loss. This string was then used to perform a systematic literature search in the database including PubMed, EMBASE, MEDLINE, and Scopus up to January 31st, 2024.

EXPERT OPINION

Managing obesity often requires medical interventions, particularly in cases of severe obesity or obesity-related comorbidities. Thus, it is important to approach obesity management holistically, considering individual needs and circumstances. In our opinion, consulting with healthcare professionals is crucial to developing a personalized plan that addresses both weight loss and overall health improvement.

Review on the Diverse Biological Effects of Glabridin

Glabridin is a prenylated isoflavan from the roots of Glycyrrhiza glabra Linne and has posed great impact on the areas of drug development and medicine, due to various biological properties such as anti-inflammation, anti-oxidation, anti-tumor, anti-microorganism, bone protection, cardiovascular protection, neuroprotection, hepatoprotection, anti-obesity, and anti-diabetes. Many signaling pathways, including NF-κB, MAPK, Wnt/β-catenin, ERα/SRC-1, PI3K/AKT, and AMPK, have been implicated in the regulatory activities of glabridin. Interestingly, glabridin has been considered as an inhibitor of tyrosinase, P-glycoprotein (P-gp), and CYP2E1 and an activator of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ), although their molecular regulating mechanisms still need further investigation. However, poor water solubility and low bioavailability have greatly limited the clinical applications of glabridin. Hopefully, several effective strategies, such as nanoemulsions, microneedles, and smartPearls formulation, have been developed for improvement.

Atheroprotective Effects of Glycyrrhiza glabra L

Cardiovascular diseases associated with atherosclerosis are the major cause of death in developed countries. Early prevention and treatment of atherosclerosis are considered to be an important aspect of the therapy of cardiovascular disease. Preparations based on natural products affect the main pathogenetic steps of atherogenesis, and so represent a perspective for the long-term prevention of atherosclerosis development. Numerous experimental and clinical studies have demonstrated the multiple beneficial effects of licorice and its bioactive compounds—anti-inflammatory, anti-cytokine, antioxidant, anti-atherogenic, and anti-platelet action—which allow us to consider licorice as a promising atheroprotective agent. In this review, we summarized the current knowledge on the licorice anti-atherosclerotic mechanisms of action based on the results of experimental studies, including the results of the in vitro study demonstrating licorice effect on the ability of blood serum to reduce intracellular cholesterol accumulation in cultured macrophages, and presented the results of clinical studies confirming the ameliorating activity of licorice in regard to traditional cardiovascular risk factors as well as the direct anti-atherosclerotic effect of licorice.

Licorice Extract Supplementation Affects Antioxidant Activity, Growth-Related Genes, Lipid Metabolism, and Immune Markers in Broiler Chickens

The objective of this study was to evaluate the Glycyrrhiza glabra effect on growth performance, blood parameters, antioxidant and lysosomal activity, histology and immunohistochemistry of liver and intestine, and the gene expression profile of broiler chickens. A total of 180 Cobb500 broiler chicks (one-week-old) were used in this study. Chicks were distributed randomly into three treatment groups; the first group received drinking water without any supplementation (control group). In contrast, birds in groups 2 and 3 received licorice supplementation in drinking water with 0.4 and 0.8 g licorice/liter, respectively. Results revealed that licorice at a 0.4 g/L of water level improved body weight, weight gain, feed intake, and FCR. Licorice also exhibits a broad range of biological activities such as hypolipidemic, hypoglycemic, hepatoprotective, immunostimulant, and antioxidant effects. The morphometric analysis of different parameters of the intestine revealed a significant increase in the intestinal villi length, width, and villi length/crypt depth in the group supplemented with licorice 0.4 gm/L compared to other groups. The number of CD3 positive in both duodenum and ileum was increased in the licorice 0.4 gm/L group compared to other groups. The expression of growth-related genes was significantly increased with licorice supplementation and modulation of the lipid metabolism genes in the liver and upregulated to the mRNA expression of both superoxide dismutase (SOD1) and Catalase (CAT). Our results revealed that licorice supplementation increased the growth performance of broiler chickens and impacted the birds' antioxidant activity through modulation of the growth-related genes, lipid metabolic markers, and antioxidant-related pathways.

The Multifunctional Role of Herbal Products in the Management of Diabetes and Obesity: A Comprehensive Review

Obesity and diabetes are the most demanding health problems today, and their prevalence, as well as comorbidities, is on the rise all over the world. As time goes on, both are becoming big issues that have a big impact on people’s lives. Diabetes is a metabolic and endocrine illness set apart by hyperglycemia and glucose narrow-mindedness because of insulin opposition. Heftiness is a typical, complex, and developing overall wellbeing worry that has for quite some time been connected to significant medical issues in individuals, all things considered. Because of the wide variety and low adverse effects, herbal products are an important hotspot for drug development. Synthetic compounds are not structurally diverse and lack drug-likeness properties. Thus, it is basic to keep on exploring herbal products as possible wellsprings of novel drugs. We conducted this review of the literature by searching Scopus, Science Direct, Elsevier, PubMed, and Web of Science databases. From 1990 until October 2021, research reports, review articles, and original research articles in English are presented. It provides top to bottom data and an examination of plant-inferred compounds that might be utilized against heftiness or potentially hostile to diabetes treatments. Our expanded comprehension of the systems of activity of phytogenic compounds, as an extra examination, could prompt the advancement of remedial methodologies for metabolic diseases. In clinical trials, a huge number of these food kinds or restorative plants, as well as their bioactive compounds, have been shown to be beneficial in the treatment of obesity.

Medicinal Uses of Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra L.): A Comprehensive Review

Innumerable plants have been used widely as integral medicinal sources since the start of human civilization. The demand for herbal medicines is constantly increasing with time overtime. Licorice ( Glycyrrhiza glabra family Leguminosae) is one of the most used herbal plants in foods, in medicinal forms, and substantially researched on a worldwide scale. It was used as traditional and complementary medicine against innumerable ailments including allergies, liver toxicity, gastric ulcer, lung diseases, skin disorders, oral health problems including tooth decay, and inflammation. The constituents of licorice include various essential oils, sugars, inorganic salts, resins, amino acids, and nucleic acids. Biological activity has been observed to be portrayed by active compounds of licorice including triterpene, flavonoids, and saponins. In recent years, licorice has been widely researched to discover its benefits, constituents, and its mechanism of action. The review summarizes the therapeutic and pharmacological benefits of licorice and its uses in different health-related conditions along with its toxicity and maximum levels of licorice consumption.

The effects of dietary licorice flavonoid oil supplementation on body balance control in healthy middle-aged and older Japanese women undergoing a physical exercise intervention: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial

AIMS

In this study, the effects of licorice flavonoid oil (LFO) supplementation on mobility functions were evaluated in middle-aged and older women who underwent daily physical exercise.

METHODS

The 73 women aged 59-85 years (71.2 ± 5.2 years) were randomly assigned to the LFO group (n = 37) or the placebo group (n = 36). For 16 weeks, the LFO group consumed a daily capsule containing 300 mg of LFO, while the placebo group consumed a placebo capsule. All participants were instructed to complete a strength training program during the 16 weeks and to increase their daily step count by 1000. 10-m walking speed (with/no obstruction), one-leg standing time with eyes open, handgrip strength, isometric knee extension strength, and body composition were evaluated at baseline and every eight weeks.

RESULTS

In the 10-m walking speeds (with/no obstruction), LFO supplementation did not show significant improvements. One-leg standing time was significantly prolonged with LFO intake (LFO: baseline 73.9 s vs 16 weeks 93.5, placebo: baseline 82.8 vs 16 weeks 87.1, p = 0.03). In addition, a significant decrease in BMI and body fat percentage with LFO was found (p = 0.01, p = 0.03, respectively).

DISCUSSION

Since a lower BMI corresponds to a lighter physical load on the lower limb, in addition, since LFO might improve skeletal muscle function by antioxidant activity, participants could stand longer and body balance control was improved.

CONCLUSION

LFO supplementation improved body balance control and may contribute to fall prevention in healthy middle-aged and older women having daily physical exercise.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

UMIN Clinical Trial Registry No. 000029712.

Glavonoid-rich oil supplementation reduces stearoyl-coenzyme A desaturase 1 expression and improves systemic metabolism in diabetic, obese KK-Ay mice

AIMS

Glavonoid-rich oil (GRO) derived from ethanol extraction of licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra Linne) root has been reported to have beneficial effects on health. In this study, we aimed to determine the effect of long-term administration of GRO on metabolic disorders and to elucidate the molecular mechanism.

MAIN METHODS

Female obese, type 2 diabetic KK-A^y mice were fed diets supplemented with 0.3% or 0.8% GRO (w/w) for 4-12 weeks. Mice were euthanized and autopsied at 20 weeks old. The effects of GRO on lipid and glucose metabolism were evaluated by measuring physiological and biochemical markers using mRNA sequencing, quantitative reverse-transcription PCR, and western blot analyses.

KEY FINDINGS

Compared to mice fed the control diet, GRO-supplemented mice had reduced body and white adipose tissue weights, serum levels of triglycerides and cholesterol, and improved glucose tolerance, while food intake was not affected. We found remarkable reductions in the gene expression levels of stearoyl-coenzyme A desaturase 1 (Scd1) and pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase isoenzyme 4 (Pdk4) in the liver, in addition to decreased expression of fatty acid synthase (Fasn) in inguinal white adipose tissue (iWAT). These results suggest that GRO supplementation improves lipid profiles via reduced de novo lipogenesis in the liver and white adipose tissue. Glucose metabolism may also be improved by increased glycolysis in the liver.

SIGNIFICANCE

Our analysis of long-term supplementation of GRO in obese and diabetic mice should provide novel insight into preventing insulin resistance and metabolic syndromes.

Preparative Separation and Purification of Liquiritin and Glycyrrhizic Acid from Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fisch by High-Speed Countercurrent Chromatography

The technique of high-speed countercurrent chromatography (HSCCC) was applied to the preparative isolation and purification of liquiritin and glycyrrhizic acid from a crude extract of Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fisch for the first time. Using single factor and orthogonal design experiments, the best extraction conditions were 70% ethanol, 1:25 ratio of solid-to-liquid (w/v) and extracted 1.5 h at 80°C. The contents of liquiritin and glycyrrhizic acid in the crude extract were 1.3 and 5.3%, respectively. Using the two-phase solvent system of ethyl acetate-methanol-water (5:2:5, v/v), 6.0 mg liquiritin (the purity was 96.7%, and the recovery was 89.3%), and 20.5 mg glycyrrhizic acid (the purity was 98.9%, and the recovery was 77.1%) were obtained from 500 mg crude extraction by HSCCC, respectively. The retention rate of stationary phase was 51.0%. Their structures were identified by high-performance liquid chromatography, melting points, ultraviolet radiation, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), Electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI-MS), 1H Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) and 13C NMR spectra. The scavenging abilities of glycyrrhizic acid to 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl and hydroxyl free radicals were stronger than those of liquiritin.

Possible ameliorating effects of Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) on the sperm parameters in rats under high fat diet

OBJECTIVES

Adverse effects of obesity, which is caused by an imbalance between the energy intake and expenditure, on the male reproductive system have been reported. Considering the anti-obesity effect of Glycyrrhiza Glabra (GC), we conducted this study to elucidate whether it can ameliorate the sperm parameters.

METHODS

In this experimental study, male Wistar rats of 6-8 weeks old were divided into four groups: control, high fat diet (HFD), GC50 (HFD plus 50 mg/kg GC extract), and GC100 (HFD plus 100 mg/kg GC extract). During the 16 weeks of the study course, the rats consumed the extract through gavage, daily. Body mass index (BMI), body weight gain, serum lipid profile, leptin concentration, and sperm parameters were investigated. Data were analyzed by one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) (post hoc Tukey) to express the significance of mean differences of variables between groups, and linear regression test was used to express the correlation model of variables. Both tests were performed by SPSS software; p≤0.05 was considered significant.

RESULTS

BMI was significantly decreased by the GC50 and GC100 groups compared to HFD group. GC50 group considerably decreased leptin level compared to HFD group. A significant positive correlation between leptin and triglyceride levels was evident. GC50 and GC100 extensively increased the total sperm motility and ameliorated the sperm abnormal morphology and count compared to HFD group.

CONCLUSION

Glycyrrhiza Glabra extract may exert its ameliorating effects on the sperm parameters through its anti-obesity impact. Both doses of the extract were effective, however, the GC100 was more effective in improving the sperm parameters.

Licorice extract suppresses adipogenesis through regulation of mitotic clonal expansion and adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase in 3T3-L1 cells

Licorice, the root of Glycyrrhiza glabra, has been observed to possess an anti-obesity effect. Previous research has suggested that licorice acetone extract (LE) has an influence on mitotic clonal expansion (MCE) and adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK), which play a key role in regulating adipogenesis. This study sought further insight into the molecular mechanism of LE's anti-obesity effect using 3T3-L1 adipocytes in vitro. LE inhibited 3T3-L1 adipogenesis, and the inhibitory effect of LE on adipogenesis was most significant in the early stage of adipogenic differentiation. LE inhibited the protein expression of cyclins and cyclin-dependent kinases in the MCE stage and arrested cells in the G1 phase of the cell cycle. Furthermore, it activated AMPK via phosphorylation. Moreover, the expression levels of lipid metabolism-related genes were regulated by LE. These findings suggest the anti-obesity effect of LE via MCE and AMPK regulation. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Although the anti-obesity effects of licorice have been studied, the application of functional food-related anti-obesity effects of licorice has been less than that of other extracts. The present study increases the reliability of the anti-obesity effect of licorice by suggesting a new mechanism of action and expands the application of functional foods related to the anti-obesity effect of licorice. A new mechanistic insight will not only improve the scientific knowledge but will also help to predict the side effects of licorice's anti-obesity application.

Licorice flavonoid oil supplementation promotes a reduction of visceral fat in exercised rats

BACKGROUND

The beneficial effect of exercise combined with licorice flavonoid oil supplementation on visceral fat was investigated.

METHODS

Male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into 4 groups: control, exercise (Ex), control with licorice flavonoid oil supplementation (LFO), and exercise with licorice flavonoid oil supplementation (ExLFO) groups. The rats in the Ex and ExLFO groups ran on a treadmill (20-degree incline at 20 m/min for 30 min/day) 5 times a week for 7 weeks, and those in the LFO and ExLFO groups were orally administered with licorice flavonoid oil daily using a feeding needle.

RESULTS

Exercise or licorice flavonoid oil supplementation resulted in the reduction of the visceral fat mass and adipocyte size, respectively. In addition, exercise combined with licorice flavonoid oil supplementation more effectively decreased both measures. Exercise alone increased the β-hydroxyacyl-CoA dehydrogenase (β-HAD) and citrate synthase (CS) activities in the soleus and plantaris muscles, and licorice flavonoid oil supplementation alone increased the hepatic carnitine palmitoyl transferase-2 (CPT-2) activity. Furthermore, the combination of exercise and licorice flavonoid oil supplementation enhanced the both muscular β-HAD and CS activities, and hepatic CPT-2 activity.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that exercise combined with licorice flavonoid oil supplementation may be effective to decrease visceral adipose tissue via enhancing skeletomuscular and hepatic fatty acids oxidative capacity.

Root-associated endophytic bacterial community composition and structure of three medicinal licorices and their changes with the growing year

BACKGROUND

The dried roots and rhizomes of medicinal licorices are widely used worldwide as a traditional medicinal herb, which are mainly attributed to a variety of bioactive compounds that can be extracted from licorice root. Endophytes and plants form a symbiotic relationship, which is an important source of host secondary metabolites.

RESULTS

In this study, we used high-throughput sequencing technology and high-performance liquid chromatography to explore the composition and structure of the endophytic bacterial community and the content of bioactive compounds (glycyrrhizic acid, liquiritin and total flavonoids) in different species of medicinal licorices (Glycyrrhiza uralensis, Glycyrrhiza glabra, and Glycyrrhiza inflata) and in different planting years (1-3 years). Our results showed that the contents of the bioactive compounds in the roots of medicinal licorices were not affected by the species, but were significantly affected by the main effect growing year (1-3) (P < 0.05), and with a trend of stable increase in the contents observed with each growing year. In 27 samples, a total of 1,979,531 effective sequences were obtained after quality control, and 2432 effective operational taxonomic units (OTUs) were obtained at 97% identity. The phylum Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria, Bacteroidetes and Firmicutes, and the genera unified-Rhizobiaceae, Pseudomonas, Novosphingobium, and Pantoea were significantly dominant in the 27 samples. Distance-based redundancy analysis (db-RDA) showed that the content of total flavonoids explained the differences in composition and distribution of endophytic bacterial communities in roots of cultivated medicinal liquorices to the greatest extent. Total soil salt was the most important factor that significantly affected the endophytic bacterial community in soil factors, followed by ammonium nitrogen and nitrate nitrogen. Among the leaf nutrition factors, leaf water content had the most significant effect on the endophytic bacterial community, followed by total phosphorus and total potassium.

CONCLUSIONS

This study not only provides information on the composition and distribution of endophytic bacteria in the roots of medicinal licorices, but also reveals the influence of abiotic factors on the community of endophytic bacteria and bioactive compounds, which provides a reference for improving the quality of licorice.

Neonatal administration of kaempferol does not alter satiety but increases somatic growth and reduces adiposity in offspring of high-fat diet dams

AIM

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of maternal exposure to a high-fat diet associated with neonatal administration of kaempferol on somatic growth, biochemical profile and feeding behavior in offspring.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Wistar rats were distributed according to diet during pregnancy and lactation into Control (C; 3.4 kcal/g; 12% kcal/lipids) or High-fat (HFD; 4.6 kcal/g; 51% kcal/lipids) groups. In the offspring, vehicle (V) or kaempferol (K, 1 mg/kg) were administered from the 8th until the 21st postnatal day (PND). Maternal body weight (BW), caloric intake and adiposity were measured. In the offspring, somatic growth parameters were evaluated on the 7th, 14th, 21st, 25th and 30th PND, except for BW, which was measured from the 8th to the 21st and from the 25th to the 30th PND. Feeding behavior was assessed by food intake and behavioral satiety sequence (BSS) on the 30th PND. The biochemical profile and relative weight of adipose tissue of offspring were also measured.

KEY FINDINGS

Dams exposed to HFD showed no difference in body weight and caloric intake but exhibited increased adiposity. Neonatal administration of kaempferol increased body weight after weaning and somatic growth in the offspring of HFD dams. Neonatal kaempferol also reduced adiposity and serum creatinine levels in offspring. Neither maternal diet nor kaempferol altered offspring feeding behavior.

SIGNIFICANCE

Neonatal administration of kaempferol promotes increased somatic growth post-weaning, reduces adiposity, and does not alter feeding behavior in offspring from high-fat dams.

Isoliquiritigenin Inhibits Atherosclerosis by Blocking TRPC5 Channel Expression

Isoliquiritigenin (ISL) is a flavonoid isolated mainly from the licorice plant, a traditional Chinese herb. ISL has shown anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antidiabetic activities. However, the pharmaceutical effects of ISL on atherosclerosis are seldom explored. In this study, we used apolipoprotein E (ApoE) knockout mouse model and angiotensin II- (Ang II-) stimulated vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) to elucidate the pharmacological mechanism of ISL to inhibit atherosclerosis. We found that in ApoE^-/- mice ISL could attenuate atherosclerotic lesion, reduce serum lipid levels, and inhibit TRPC5 expression. In vitro, ISL inhibited Ang II-stimulated proliferation of VSMCs and suppressed Ang II-induced TRPC5 and PCNA expressions in a dose-dependent fashion. In conclusion, our findings provide novel insight into the pharmacological effects of ISL on atherosclerosis and suggest that ISL is beneficial for cardiovascular protection.

Preparative separation of liquiritigenin and glycyrrhetic acid from Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fisch using hydrolytic extraction combined with high-speed countercurrent chromatography

The objective of this paper was to develop a preparative method for the isolation and purification of liquiritigenin and glycyrrhetic acid from Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fisch using hydrolytic extraction combined with high-speed countercurrent chromatography (HSCCC). Liquiritigenin and glycyrrhetic acid were well hydrolyzed from liquiritin and glycyrrhizic acid by hydrochloric acid, respectively. The optimal extraction conditions were obtained by single-factor and orthogonal experiments, which were 100% ethanol, 1.5 mol/L hydrochloric acid, 1:25 ratio of solid to liquid, and extracted 2 h for one time. Using the two-phase solvent system of n-hexane-ethyl acetate-methanol-water (4:5:4:5, v/v), 2.1 mg liquiritigenin (the purity was 96.5% with a recovery of 87.6%) and 12.3 mg glycyrrhetic acid (the purity was 97.1% with a recovery of 74.4%) were obtained from 315-mg crude extraction by HSCCC. The retention ratio of stationary phase was 47.2%. Their structures were identified by HPLC, melting points, UV, Fourier-transform infrared, Electrospray ionization-MS, ¹ H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), and ¹³ C NMR spectra. According to the antioxidant activity assays, liquiritigenin and glycyrrhetic acid had some scavenging abilities on 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl free radicals; liquiritigenin had stronger scavenging ability on hydroxyl radicals.

A Review of the Pharmacological Efficacy and Safety of Licorice Root from Corroborative Clinical Trial Findings

Since ancient times, licorice, the root of Glycyrrhiza glabra, has been known to have a wide spectrum of therapeutic effects. Glycyrrhizin is cleaved to glycyrrhizic acid, which is subsequently converted to glycyrrhetic acid by human intestinal microflora. Glycyrrhetic acid is a potent inhibitor of 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (11β-HSD) and performs a range of corticosteroid-like activities. The pharmacologic effects of licorice contribute to its anti-inflammatory, antioxidative, anti-allergenic, and antimicrobial properties. Licorice has been used to treat liver disease, gastrointestinal disorders, oral disease, and various skin disorders and has been used in gum, candy, herbs, alcoholic beverages, and food supplements. Licorice and its extracts, especially glycyrrhizin, can be taken orally, through the skin (in the form of gels and oils), and intravenously. Licorice demonstrates mineralocorticoid-like activity not only by inhibiting 11β-HSD2, but also by binding to a mineralocorticoid receptor, leading to potentially adverse risks of mineralocorticoid-like overactivity. Chronic use of licorice can lead to hypokalemia and hypertension, and some people are more sensitive to licorice exposure. Based on clinical trials, this review summarizes the positive effects of licorice and other reported side effects.

Effect of Myristica fragrans extract on total body composition in cafeteria diet induced obese rats

It is of interest to evaluate the effect of Myristica fragrans on body composition of cafeteria diet induced obese rats. Thirty rats (150-160g) grouped into 5 and each group contains 6 rats. Group-1 was normal control and 2-5 groups were fed with cafeteria diet for 15 weeks to induce obesity. From 16th week to 25th week test drugs were given as mentioned in the experimental protocol. Body weight, BMI, changes in body composition was measured by TOBEC, adipose tissue weights, organ weights, abdominal circumference were measured according to standard methods. After 70days of treatment with MFE 200mg/kg, 400mg/kg Body weight reduced by 9.29%, 12.87% respectively. BMI was also decreased. Abdominal circumference, total fat percentage, organ weights, was substantially reduced. At 400mg/kg of MFE has shown maximum potentiality when compared with 200mg/kg. Orlistat 50mg was used as standard drug. Tetrahydrofuran, flavonoids, saponins, present in Myristica fragrans has shown anti obesity activity. Our findings explain the potentiality of phytochemicals as a potent anti obesity agent, provide scientific evidence for its traditional use and suggest the possible mechanism of action.

New Insights into Bioactive Compounds of Traditional Chinese Medicines for Insulin Resistance Based on Signaling Pathways

Type 2 diabetes is a serious metabolic disease as a long-term threat to human health. Insulin resistance is not only the basis and major feature of type 2 diabetes, but also the main etiology of diseases such as hypertension, hyperlipidemia and coronary heart disease. It has been shown that Traditional Chinese Medicines (TCMs) play an important role in the treatment of type 2 diabetes, through attenuating insulin resistance, whereas the mechanism involved is not yet well understood. Therefore, it is important to elucidate the pharmacological mechanism of these bioactive compounds so that one can pave the way for the modernization of TCMs. In this review, we focus on the recent progresses of some bioactive ingredients from TCMs with different functional groups, which exhibit therapeutic potential for the treatment of diabetic insulin resistance. It is expected that this review can provide new references for developing TCM-derived drugs against diabetes and insulin resistance in the future.

Quality evaluation of health foods containing licorice in the Japanese Market

Focusing on licorice, a highly used raw material in health foods, quantitative analysis of functional/medicinal components and a safety and functional evaluation was carried out for herbal medicines, health food ingredients, and so-called health foods. A functional component, glabridin, was detected in herbal medicines from Glycyrrhiza glabra and G. inflata, health food ingredients, and in commercially available health foods that contain licorice. Likewise, glycyrrhizin, a medicinal component, was detected in these sources, except in licorice oil extract. Estrogen activity in vitro was detected in some of the herbal medicines, health food ingredients, and in health foods containing licorice. In the in vivo study, liver weight in ovariectomized (OVX) mice treated with licorice oil extract was significantly higher than that in OVX and sham mice in a dose dependent manner. These results suggest that excessive intake of licorice oil extract from health foods should be avoided, even though these ingredients might be beneficial for medical use in order to maintain bone health in postmenopausal women. Measurement of hepatic cytochrome P-450 (CYP) activity, reproductive organ weight, and fat and bone mass in OVX mice was considered useful for evaluating the safety and efficacy of estrogenic health food ingredients derived from herbal medicines.

The ameliorative effect of Protaetia brevitarsis Larvae in HFD-induced obese mice

Protaetia brevitarsis Lewis (P. brevitarsis) larvae, edible insect, traditionally is consumed for various health benefits. However, little information is available with respect to its direct anti-obesity effects. Thus, the present study was designed to investigate the regulatory effect of P. brevitarsis against high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obese mice. HFD-fed mice showed an increase in the body weight and serum levels of total cholesterol as well as low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol, and triglycerides. The administration of P. brevitarsis to obese mice induced a reduction in their body weight, lipid accumulation in liver and serum lipid parameter compared with the HFD fed mice. P. brevitarsis also inhibited the expression of obesity-related genes such as CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein alpha and fatty acid synthesis in 3T3-L1 cells. Moreover, oleic acid was identified as predominant fatty acid of P. brevitarsis by gas chromatography analysis. Conclusively, these findings suggested that P. brevitarsis may help to prevent obesity and obesity-related metabolic diseases.

The nutraceutical potential of Lepidium sativum L. seed flavonoid-rich extract in managing metabolic syndrome components

The present study aimed to investigate the phytochemical and pharmacological identities of a Lepidium sativum L. (LS) flavonoid-rich extract and its beneficial effects on metabolic, hormonal, and histological status. Chemical screening, as well as high-performance liquid chromatography with diode-array detection (HPLC-DAD) identified high concentrations of the main flavonoid compounds in LS crude extract such as flavonols (quercetin, kaempferol), flavones (luteolin, apigenin), and especially flavanones (naringin, naringenin). Examinations of the biochemical and histopathological aspects showed the curative effects carried by LS flavonoid-rich extracts on high-fat diet-fed Wistar rats. In this study, we propose that these molecules probably exerted the bioactivity observed in the treated group through improving insulin sensitivity, dyslipidemia, inflammation, and pancreas β cell integrity. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: The LS seed is widely used in traditional medicine to treat hyperglycemia and inflammation. During the traditional mixture preparation, the thermal procedures could impair the bioactions of the most interesting group of LS phytoconstituants, flavonoids. In the present study, we propose an appropriate procedure to preserve those phytochemicals and suggest them as a substitute for the management of metabolic diseases. The dried LS extract showed an incredible set of effective flavonoids, which revealed hypoglycemic, hypolipidemic, anti-inflammatory, cytoprotective, and antidiabetic activities. Thus, LS flavonoids constitute a remarkable product to consider in pharmaceutical industry targeting diabetes and heart diseases. Due to their enormous antioxidant potential, the LS flavonoids could be also used in food engineering and cosmetic preparations. Their practical applications is however often limited by low solubility and stability in lipophilic media. Therefore, a modification of the flavonoid structure is possibly required.

Licorice flavonoid oil enhances muscle mass in KK-Ay mice

AIMS

Muscle mass is regulated by the balance between the synthesis and degradation of muscle proteins. Loss of skeletal muscle mass is associated with an increased risk of developing metabolic diseases such as obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus. The aim of this study was to clarify the effects of licorice flavonoid oil on muscle mass in KK-A^y/Ta mice.

MAIN METHODS

Male genetically type II diabetic KK-A^y/Ta mice received 0, 1, or 1.5 g/kg BW of licorice flavonoid oil by mouth once daily for 4 weeks. After 4 weeks, the femoral and soleus muscles were collected for western blotting for evaluation of the mTOR/p70 S6K, p38/FoxO3a, and Akt/FoxO3a signaling pathways.

KEY FINDINGS

Ingestion of licorice flavonoid oil significantly enhanced femoral muscle mass without affecting body weight in KK-A^y/Ta mice. Licorice flavonoid oil also decreased expression of MuRF1 and atrogin-1, which are both markers of muscle atrophy. The mechanisms by which licorice flavonoid oil enhances muscle mass include activation of mTOR and p70 S6K, and regulation of phosphorylation of FoxO3a.

SIGNIFICANCE

Ingestion of licorice flavonoids may help to prevent muscle atrophy.

Effects of glutathione s-transferase (GST) M1 and T1 polymorphisms on antioxidant vitamins and oxidative stress-related parameters in Korean subclinical hypertensive subjects after kale juice (Brassica oleracea acephala) supplementation

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

Glutathione s-transferase (GST) is involved in the formation of a multigene family comprising phase II detoxification enzymes, involved in the detoxification of reactive oxygen species. This study evaluated whether daily supplementation with kale juice could modulate levels of plasma antioxidant vitamins and oxidative stress-related parameters. We further examined whether this modulation was affected by combined GSTM1 and T1 polymorphisms.

SUBJECTS/METHODS

Totally, 84 subclinical hypertensive patients having systolic blood pressure (BP) over 130 mmHg or diastolic BP over 85 mmHg, received 300 mL of kale juice daily for 6 weeks. Blood samples were drawn before start of study and after completion of 6 weeks.

RESULTS

After supplementation, we observed significant decrease in DNA damage and increase in erythrocyte catalase activity in all genotypes. Plasma level of vitamin C was significantly increased in the wild/null and double null genotypes. The plasma levels of β-carotene, erythrocyte glutathione peroxidase activity, and nitric oxide were increased only in the wild/null genotype after kale juice supplementation.

CONCLUSIONS

The effect of kale juice was significantly greater in the GSTM1 null genotype and wild/null genotype groups, suggesting possibility of personalized nutritional prescriptions based on personal genetics.

Changes of Insulin Resistance and Adipokines Following Supplementation with Glycyrrhiza Glabra L. Extract in Combination with a Low-Calorie Diet in Overweight and Obese Subjects: a Randomized Double Blind Clinical Trial

Purpose: Adipose tissue is a highly active endocrine organ which plays a key role in energy homeostasis. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of dried licorice extract along with a calorie restricted diet on body composition, insulin resistance and adipokines in overweight and obese subjects.

Methods: Sixty-four overweight and obese volunteers (27 men, 37 women) were recruited into this double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized, clinical trial. Participants were randomly allocated to the Licorice (n=32) or the placebo group (n=32), and each group received a low-calorie diet with either 1.5 g/day of Licorice extract or placebo for 8 weeks. Biochemical parameters, anthropometric indices, body composition and dietary intake were measured at baseline and at the end of the study.

Results: A total of 58 subjects completed the trial. No side effects were observed following licorice supplementation. At the end of the study, waist circumference, fat mass, serum levels of vaspin, zinc-α2 glycoprotein, insulin and HOMA-IR were significantly decreased in the intervention group, but only the reduction in serum vaspin levels in the licorice group was significant when compared to the placebo group (p<0.01).

Conclusion: Supplementation with dried licorice extract plus a low-calorie diet can increase vaspin levels in obese subjects. However, the anti-obesity effects of the intervention were not stronger than a low-calorie diet alone in the management of obesity.

Metabolic enzymes dysregulation in heart failure: the prospective therapy

The heart failure accounts for the highest mortality rate all over the world. The development of preventive therapeutic approaches is still in their infancy. Owing to the extremely high energy demand of the heart, the bioenergetics pathways need to respond efficiently based on substrate availability. The metabolic regulation of such heart bioenergetics is mediated by various rate limiting enzymes involved in energy metabolism. Although all the pertinent mechanisms are not clearly understood, the progressive decline in the activity of metabolic enzymes leading to diminished ATP production is known to cause progression of the heart failure. Therefore, metabolic therapy that can maintain the appropriate activities of metabolic enzymes can be a promising approach for the prevention and treatment of the heart failure. The flavonoids that constitute various human dietary ingredients also effectively offer a variety of health benefits. The flavonoids target a variety of metabolic enzymes and facilitate effective management of the equilibrium between production and utilization of energy in the heart. This review discusses the broad impact of metabolic enzymes in the heart functions and explains how the dysregulated enzyme activity causes the heart failure. In addition, the prospects of targeting dysregulated metabolic enzymes by developing flavonoid-based metabolic approaches are discussed.

Medicinal plants and bioactive natural compounds in the treatment of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: A clinical review

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a major cause of liver diseases, and is closely related to metabolic syndrome and its related conditions, diabetes mellitus and dyslipidemia. On the other hand, NAFLD as a multisystem disease increases the risk of several chronic diseases include type 2 diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disease (CVD), and chronic kidney disease. The main objective was to review the efficacy of bioactive natural compounds assessed by clinical trials. Search literature using four databases (PubMed, EBSCO, Web of Science, and Ovid Medline) to review publications that focused on the impact of bioactive natural compounds in NAFLD treatment. Due to the lack of effective pharmacological treatments available for NAFLD, lifestyle modifications such as following a healthy diet, vigorous physical activity, and weight reduction remain the first line of treatment for NAFLD. However, due to the poor adherence to this type of treatment, especially for long-term weight loss diets some of which may have harmful effects on the liver, finding novel therapeutic agents for NAFLD treatment and/or preventing NAFLD progression has garnered significant interest. Although the therapeutic agents of NAFLD treatment have been reviewed previously, to date, no summary has been conducted of clinical trials examining the effects of herbal compounds on NAFLD-related biomarkers. This review highlights the beneficial role of herbal bioactives and medicinal plants in NAFLD treatment, particularly as complementary to a healthy lifestyle. All natural products described in this review seem to have some benefits to improve oxidative stress, cellular inflammation and insulin-resistance, which always remain as the "primum movens" of NAFLD pathogenesis.

Structural difference of palm based Medium- and Long-Chain Triacylglycerol (MLCT) further reduces body fat accumulation in DIO C57BL/6J mice when consumed in low fat diet for a mid-term period

Medium-and-Long Chain Triacylglycerol (MLCT) is a type of structured lipid that is made up of medium chain, MCFA (C8-C12) and long chain, LCFA (C16-C22) fatty acid. Studies claimed that consumption of MLCT has the potential in reducing visceral fat accumulation as compared to long chain triacylglycerol, LCT. This is mainly attributed to the rapid metabolism of MCFA as compared to LCFA. Our study was designed to compare the anti-obesity effects of a enzymatically interesterified MLCT (E-MLCT) with physical blend of palm kernel and palm oil (B-PKOPO) having similar fatty acid composition and a commercial MLCT (C-MLCT) made of rapeseed/soybean oil on Diet Induced Obesity (DIO) C57BL/6J mice for a period of four months in low fat, LF (7%) and high fat, HF (30%) diet. The main aim was to determine if the anti-obesity effect of MLCT was contributed solely by its triacylglycerol structure alone or its fatty acid composition or both. Out of the three types of MLCT, mice fed with Low Fat, LF (7%) E-MLCT had significantly (P<0.05) lower body weight gain (by ~30%), body fat accumulation (by ~37%) and hormone leptin level as compared to both the LF B-PKOPO and LF C-MLCT. Histological examination further revealed that dietary intake of E-MLCT inhibited hepatic lipid accumulation. Besides, analysis of serum profile also demonstrated that consumption of E-MLCT was better in regulating blood glucose compared to B-PKOPO and C-MLCT. Nevertheless, both B-PKO-PO and E-MLCT which contained higher level of myristic acid was found to be hypercholesterolemic compared to C-MLCT. In summary, our finding showed that triacylglycerol structure, fatty acid composition and fat dosage play a pivotal role in regulating visceral fat accumulation. Consumption of E-MLCT in low fat diet led to a significantly lesser body fat accumulation. It was postulated that the MLM/MLL/LMM/MML/LLM types of triacylglycerol and C8-C12 medium chain fatty acids were the main factors that contributed to the visceral fat suppressing effect of MLCT. Despite being able to reduce body fat, the so called healthful functional oil E-MLCT when taken in high amount do resulted in fat accumulation. In summary, E-MLCT when taken in moderation can be used to manage obesity issue. However, consumption of E-MLCT may lead to higher total cholesterol and LDL level.

Differential Tissue-specific and Pathway-specific Anti-obesity Effects of Green Tea and Taeumjowitang, a Traditional Korean Medicine, in Mice

Background

Traditional medicines have been leveraged for the treatment and prevention of obesity, one of the fastest growing diseases in the world. However, the exact mechanisms underlying the effects of traditional medicine on obesity are not yet fully understood.

Methods

We produced the transcriptomes of epididymal white adipose tissue (eWAT), liver, muscle, and hypothalamus harvested from mice fed a normal diet, high-fat-diet alone, high-fat-diet together with green tea, or a high-fat-diet together with Taeumjowitang, a traditional Korean medicine.

Results

We found tissue-specific gene expression patterns as follows: (i) the eWAT transcriptome was more significantly altered by Taeumjowitang than by green tea, (ii) the liver transcriptome was similarly altered by Taeumjowitang and green tea, and (iii) both the muscle and hypothalamus transcriptomes were more significantly altered by green tea than Taeumjowitang. We then applied integrated network analyses, which revealed that functional networks associated with lymphocyte activation were more effectively regulated by Taeumjowitang than by green tea in the eWAT. In contrast, green tea was a more effective regulator of functional networks associated with glucose metabolic processes in the eWAT.

Conclusions

Taeumjowitang and green tea have a differential tissue-specific and pathway-specific therapeutic effect on obesity.

The Effect of Dried Glycyrrhiza Glabra L. Extract on Obesity Management with Regard to PPAR-γ2 (Pro12Ala) Gene Polymorphism in Obese Subjects Following an Energy Restricted Diet

Purpose: Obesity is a multi-factorial health problem which results from the interaction of environmental and genetic factors. The aim of the present study was to determine the effects of dried licorice extract with a calorie restricted diet on anthropometric indices and insulin resistance with nutrigenetic approach. Methods: For this pilot, double-blind, placebo-controlled randomized clinical trial, 72 eligible subjects were randomly allocated to Licorice or placebo group. They received a low-calorie diet either with a 1.5 g/day of Licorice extract or placebo for 8 weeks. Results: There were no significant differences in anthropometric indices and dietary intake in genotype subgroups at the baseline. Findings indicated that supplementation with Licorice extract did not change anthropometric indices and biochemical parameters significantly compared to a hypocaloric diet alone. However, from the nutrigenetic point of view, significant changes in anthropometric indices and QUICKI were observed in the Pro12Pro genotypes compared to the Pro12Ala at the end of the study (p<0.05 in all variables). Moreover, no interactive effect of the Licorice supplement and Pro12Ala genotype was found. Conclusion: In obese subjects, the Pro/Pro polymorphism of the PPAR-γ2 gene seems to induce favourable effects on obesity management. Further studies are needed to clarify whether PPAR-γ2 gene polymorphisms or other obesity genes can affect responses to obesity treatment.

The effects of licorice flavonoid oil with respect to increasing muscle mass: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial

BACKGROUND

The present study evaluated the effects of licorice flavonoid oil (LFO) with respect to increasing the muscle mass of elderly populations using a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Fifty participants aged 54-90 years (seven men, 43 women), who underwent rehabilitation treatment for osteoarthritis of the knee, were examined and assigned to either the LFO group (n = 26) or the placebo group (n = 24). The LFO group consumed 300 mg LFO day^-1 , whereas the placebo group consumed one placebo capsule every day for 16 weeks. We measured muscle mass, body fat percentage and the Japanese Knee Osteoarthritis Measure score at baseline and every 4 weeks thereafter.

RESULTS

In the LFO group, muscle mass in the body trunk increased significantly after 16 weeks of LFO intake (+0.38 kg, P = 0.02). The trunk muscle mass weight of the LFO group increased significantly compared to that of the placebo group (P < 0.01). Furthermore, the body fat percentage and body trunk fat percentage of the LFO group were significantly suppressed compared to that of the placebo group (P = 0.03 and P < 0.01, respectively).

CONCLUSION

The results of the present trial indicate that LFO supplementation has effects with respect to increasing muscle mass and suppressing the body fat percentage of elderly populations, especially in the body trunk. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry.

Anti-obesity effect of ethanolic extract from Cosmos caudatus Kunth leaf in lean rats fed a high fat diet

Background

Obesity is a major health concern both in developed and developing countries. The use of herbal medicines became the subject of interest for the management of obesity due to its natural origin, cost effectiveness and minimal side effects. The present study aimed at investigating anti-obesity potential of ethanolic extract from Cosmos caudatus Kunth leaf (EECCL).

Methods

In this study, the rats were randomly divided into six groups i.e., (1) Normal Diet (ND); (2) Normal Diet and 175 mg/kgBW of EECCL (ND + 175 mg/kgBW); (3) Normal Diet and 350 mg/kgBW of EECCL (ND + 350 mg/kgBW); (4) High Fat Diet (HFD); (5) High Fat Diet and 175 mg/kgBW of EECCL (HFD + 175 mg/kgBW); (6) High Fat Diet and 350 mg/kgBW of EECCL (HFD + 350 mg/kgBW). The anti-obesity potential was evaluated through analyses of changes in body weight, visceral fat weight, and blood biochemicals including total cholesterol, triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c), leptin, insulin, adiponectin, ghrelin and fecal fat content. In addition, metabolite profiling of EECCL was carried out using NMR spectroscopy.

Results

Rats receiving EECCL together with HFD showed significant (p < 0.05) reduction in body weight gain compared to rats receiving HFD only. At the end of study, the body weight gain of EECCL treated rats was not significantly (p > 0.05) different with those of ND rats. Other related obesity biomarkers including plasma lipid profiles, insulin, leptin, ghrelin and adiponectin levels also showed significant improvement (p < 0.05). Administration of EECCL caused significant (p < 0.05) increase in fecal fat excretion, which validates the hypothesis of lipase inhibition, an anti-obesity mechanism similar to standard drug of Orlistat. The ¹H-NMR spectra of EECCL ascertained the presence of catechin, quercetin, rutin, kaempherol and chlorogenic acid in the extract.

Conclusion

Conclusively, EECCL showed anti-obesity properties by inhibition of intestinal lipid absorption and modulation of adipocytes markers.

Enhancement of Fat Oxidation by Licorice Flavonoid Oil in Healthy Humans during Light Exercise

Licorice flavonoid oil (LFO) is a new functional food ingredient consisting of hydrophobic licorice polyphenols in medium-chain triglycerides. Recent studies reported that LFO prevented and ameliorated diet-induced obesity via the regulation of lipid metabolism-related gene expression in the livers of mice and rats, while it reduced body weight in overweight human subjects by reducing total body fat. However, the direct effects of LFO on energy metabolism have not been studied in human subjects. Therefore, we investigated the effects of ingestion of LFO on energy metabolism, including fat oxidation, by measuring body surface temperature under resting conditions and respiratory gas analysis under exercise conditions in healthy humans. We showed that ingestion of a single 600 mg dose of LFO elevated body trunk skin temperature when measured in a slightly cooled air-conditioned room, and increased oxygen consumption and decreased the respiratory exchange ratio as measured by respiratory gas analysis during 40% Vo2max exercise with a cycle ergometer. Furthermore, repeated ingestion of 300 mg of LFO for 8 d decreased respiratory exchange during the recovery period following 40 min of 30% Vo2max exercise on a treadmill. These results suggest that LFO enhances fat oxidation in humans during light exercise.

Beneficial effects of legumes on parameters of the metabolic syndrome: a systematic review of trials in animal models

Legume consumption plays a pivotal role in the prevention and treatment of the metabolic syndrome (MetS). This systematic review aimed to highlight the beneficial effects of legume interventions for the prevention and/or improvement of parameters related to the MetS and the implicated metabolic pathways so far reported. The methodology involved a search in four electronic databases (Medline, Web of Science, Scopus, Cochrane Library) from January 2007 to December 2014, considering as descriptors ‘Metabolic Syndrome’ and ‘Fabaceae’ and adequately adjusting the equation in each one of them. In total, forty-one studies were finally included. The majority of the studies described a regulating effect on glucose and lipid metabolism due to legume administration, whereas effects on blood pressure and renal parameters are not fully described. Regarding the metabolic pathways involved, they include the up-regulation of genes related to β-oxidation and acetyl-CoA degradation and the down-regulation of glycolytic and lipogenesis genes, as well as those associated with the acetyl-CoA synthesis. The ameliorating effects of legume consumption on the alterations associated with the MetS are clearly reported and coincide with changes in the expression of protein and genes involved in lipid and glucose metabolism. More research needs to be conducted including more legume species that are highly consumed as part of a healthy dietary pattern.

Licorice root components in dietary supplements are selective estrogen receptor modulators with a spectrum of estrogenic and anti-estrogenic activities

Licorice root extracts are often consumed as botanical dietary supplements by menopausal women as a natural alternative to pharmaceutical hormone replacement therapy. In addition to their components liquiritigenin (Liq) and isoliquiritigenin (Iso-Liq), known to have estrogenic activity, licorice root extracts also contain a number of other flavonoids, isoflavonoids, and chalcones. We have investigated the estrogenic activity of 7 of these components, obtained from an extract of Glycyrrhiza glabra powder, namely Glabridin (L1), Calycosin (L2), Methoxychalcone (L3), Vestitol (L4), Glyasperin C (L5), Glycycoumarin (L6), and Glicoricone (L7), and compared them with Liq, Iso-Liq, and estradiol (E2). All components, including Liq and Iso-Liq, have low binding affinity for estrogen receptors (ERs). Their potency and efficacy in stimulating the expression of estrogen-regulated genes reveal that Liq and Iso-Liq and L2, L3, L4, and L6 are estrogen agonists. Interestingly, L3 and L4 have an efficacy nearly equivalent to E2 but with a potency ca. 10,000-fold less. The other components, L1, L5 and L7, acted as partial estrogen antagonists. All agonist activities were reversed by the antiestrogen, ICI 182,780, or by knockdown of ERα with siRNA, indicating that they are ER dependent. In HepG2 hepatoma cells stably expressing ERα, only Liq, Iso-Liq, and L3 stimulated estrogen-regulated gene expression, and in all cases gene stimulation did not occur in HepG2 cells lacking ERα. Collectively, these findings classify the components of licorice root extracts as low potency, mixed ER agonists and antagonists, having a character akin to that of selective estrogen receptor modulators or SERMs.

Glycyrrhiza glabra

Liquorice foliage

Effects of flavones of sea buckthorn fruits on growth performance, carcass quality, fat deposition and lipometabolism for broilers

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of different levels of flavones of sea buckthorn fruits (FSBF) on growth performance, carcass quality, fat deposition, and lipometabolism for broilers. 240 one-day-old Arbor Acres male broilers were randomly allotted to 4 dietary treatments (0, 0.05%, 0.10%, and 0.15% FSBF) with 6 replicates of 10 birds. Broilers were reared for 42 d. Results showed FSBF quadratically improved average daily feed intake (ADFI), average daily gain (ADG), and final body weight (BW) (P = 0.002, P = 0.019 and P = 0.018, respectively). The abdominal fat percentage in 0.05%, 0.10%, and 0.15% FSBF supplementation groups was decreased by 21.08%, 19.12%, and 19.61% with respect to the control group, respectively (P < 0.05). The intramuscular fat (IMF) content in the breast muscle of the broilers was increased by 7.21%, 23.42% and 6.30% in 0.05%, 0.10% and 0.15% FSBF groups, and that in the thigh meat was raised by 4.43%, 24.63% and 12.32%, compared with the control group, respectively (P < 0.05). FSBF had a quadratic effect on the abdominal fat percentage and IMF in the breast muscle (P < 0.05). Dietary FSBF also modified fatty acids of muscular tissues, resulting in a higher ratio of unsaturated to saturated fatty acids (P < 0.05). Supplementing FSBF in the diet greatly decreased the levels of triglyceride, cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (P < 0.05). Moreover, the quadratic responses were also observed in the levels of insulin and adiponectin in serum (P = 0.020 and P = 0.037, respectively). Abdominal fat percentage was correlated negatively with insulin and positively with adiponectin (P < 0.05). IMF content in the breast and thigh muscles were correlated positively with insulin, and negatively with adiponectin (P < 0.05). A positive correlation existed between breast muscle, IMF, and leptin (P < 0.05). In conclusion, adding FSBF into the diets affected growth performance and fat deposition of broilers by regulating lipometabolism. Fat deposition and distribution of broilers were closely associated with concentrations of insulin and adiponectin. The optimal level of FSBF supplemented in diet was 0.05 to 0.10% in this study.