Investigation of the anti-obesity action of licorice flavonoid oil in diet-induced obese rats

Inhibitory Effect of Isoliquiritigenin in Niemann-Pick C1-Like 1-Mediated Cholesterol Uptake

Isoliquiritigenin (ISL) is a flavonoid with a chalcone structure extracted from the natural herb Glycyrrhiza glabra. Its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antioxidant, and anticancer activities have been extensively studied. Moreover, ISL also possess hypolipidemic and atherosclerosis-reducing effects. However, its cholesterol-lowering mechanisms have not been reported yet. Niemann Pick C1 Like 1 (NPC1L1) is a specific transporter of cholesterol uptake. In this study, we found for the first time that ISL downregulates NPC1L1 expression and competitively inhibits cellular cholesterol uptake by binding to NPC1L1 in a concentration-dependent manner in vitro. This study provides a theoretical basis for further investigation of the molecular mechanisms of its cholesterol-lowering effect in vivo and inspired emerging drug research for cholesterol-lowering purposes through NPC1L1 inhibition.

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.

Flavonoids are promising safe therapy against COVID-19

Flavonoids are a class of phenolic natural products, well-identified in traditional and modern medicines in the treatment of several diseases including viral infection. Flavonoids showed potential inhibitory activity against coronaviruses including the current pandemic outbreak caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and designated as COVID-19. Here, we have collected all data related to the potential inhibitory mechanisms of flavonoids against SARS-CoV-2 infection and their significant immunomodulatory activities. The data were mapped and compared to elect major flavonoids with a promising role in the current pandemic. Further, we have linked the global existence of flavonoids in medicinal plants and their role in protection against COVID-19. Computational analysis predicted that flavonoids can exhibit potential inhibitory activity against SARS-CoV-2 by binding to essential viral targets required in virus entry and/ or replication. Flavonoids also showed excellent immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory activities including the inhibition of various inflammatory cytokines. Further, flavonoids showed significant ability to reduce the exacerbation of COVID-19 in the case of obesity via promoting lipids metabolism. Moreover, flavonoids exhibit a high safety profile, suitable bioavailability, and no significant adverse effects. For instance, plants rich in flavonoids are globally distributed and can offer great protection from COVID-19. The data described in this study strongly highlighted that flavonoids particularly quercetin and luteolin can exhibit promising multi-target activity against SARS-CoV-2, which promote their use in the current and expected future outbreaks. Therefore, a regimen of flavonoid-rich plants can be recommended to supplement a sufficient amount of flavonoids for the protection and treatment from SARS-CoV-2 infection.

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.

Nephroprotective, cytotoxic and antioxidant activities of Euphorbia paralias

Objective

To investigate the effect of the ethyl acetate fraction of the aerial parts of E. paralias L. F. Euphorbiaceae on nephroprotective, cytotoxic, and antioxidant.

Methods

different spectroscopic and spectrophotometric methods were applied to identify phytoconstituents. The nephroprotective potential of E. paralias ethyl acetate fraction (Ep EtOAc) was evaluated in male rats with thioacetamide-induced kidney injury, as wll as cytotoxic activity was evaluated using a viability assay, and the antioxidant activity was evaluated using the DPPH method. Results: quantitative estimation of total phenolics and flavonoids of E. paralias was performed using unique spectrophotometric methods. The polyphenolic compounds gallic acid (1), ellagic acid (2), kaempferol-3-O-(6″-O-galloyl-β-D-glucopyranoside) (3), quercetin-3-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (4) and quercetin-3-O-β-D-arabinoside (5) were isolated from the ethyl acetate fraction of the aerial parts of E. paralias. The thioacetamide administration resulted in marked nephrotoxicity, but pretreatment with Ep EtOAc significantly attenuated the nephrotoxicity through alteration of kidney biomarkers, thereby improving the redox status of the tissue and restoring serum biochemical parameters nearly to normal levels. This study revealed a significant cytotoxic and strong antioxidant effect. Conclusion: we conclude that the Ep EtOAc may be used in the future as nephroprotective, cytotoxic, and antioxidant agent derived from a natural source.

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.

Effect of licorice on patients with HSD11B1 gene polymorphisms- a pilot study

The positive association of HSD11B1 gene polymorphism with type 2 diabetes (T2D) and prediabetic conditions has been revealed. In the current study, we assessed the effectiveness of licorice on the clinical profile of the patients with HSD11B1 gene polymorphism. Licorice (Glycyrrhiza Glabra) is a competitive inhibitor of 11 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase 1 (11β-HSD1) enzyme and has been traditionally reported as an anti-ulcer, anti-pyretic, anti-thirst, anti-inflammatory, hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic agent. The aim of the study was to assess the effectiveness of licorice on the clinical profile of participants with HSD11B1 gene polymorphism. The study was performed using diabetic patients with HSD11B1 gene polymorphism. Biochemical and anthropometric parameters were measured using standard diagnostic tools. Fourteen patients were divided into two groups by simple randomization, Licorice group (treated with 750 mg licorice/day for three weeks), and placebo group (treated with 750 mg placebo/day for three weeks). Investigations were repeated at the end of three weeks. Licorice showed a significant reduction in serum insulin levels (p = 0.03). There was no significant change in any other clinical parameters either by licorice or placebo. Conclusively, licorice moderately improves serum insulin levels in patients with HSD11B1 gene polymorphism. From our pilot study, the safety of licorice is confirmed at a dose of 750 mg/day. However, the study can be repeated at a higher dose to show its effectiveness and safety.

Antiobesity and anti-inflammation effects of Hakka stir-fried tea of different storage years on high-fat diet-induced obese mice model via activating the AMPK/ACC/CPT1 pathway

Background

As a typical representative of metabolic syndrome, obesity is also one of the extremely dangerous factors of cardiovascular diseases. Thus, the prevention and treatment of obesity has gradually become a global campaign. There have been many reports that green tea is effective in preventing obesity, but as a kind of green tea with regional characteristics, there have been no reports that Hakka stir-fried tea (HT) of different storage years has a weight loss effect.

Aims

The aim was to investigate the effect of HT in diet-induced obese mice.

Methods

The mice were divided into five groups as follows: the control group received normal diet; the obese model group received high-fat diet; and HT2003, HT2008, and HT2015 groups, after the induction of obesity via a high-fat diet, received HT of different storage years treatment for 6 weeks, respectively.

Results

It was observed that HT decreased the levels of serum and liver triglyceride; the ratio of liver to body weight; accumulation of epididymal, perirenal, and mesenteric fat; the degree of hepatic steatosis; and adipocyte hypertrophy, with the concomitant reduction of body weight. Moreover, HT decreased the expression levels of proinflammatory cytokines tumor necrosis factor α (TNF α), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and reduced fatty acid synthase (FAS) activity in liver tissue of obese mice. In addition, HT treatment also increased the phosphorylation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and its direct downstream proteins, acetyl coenzyme A carboxylase (ACC), and carnitine palmitoyltransferase I (CPT-1), which participate in FAS pathway.

Conclusions

These findings demonstrate that HT treatment has a potential protection on high-fat diet-induced obesity mice via activating the AMPK/ACC/CPT1 pathway, and to a certain extent, it has nothing to do with the storage time of three kinds of HT.

The modulatory effect and the mechanism of flavonoids on obesity

With the improvement of living standards, obesity has become a serious health problem all over the word. Currently, the methods and drugs for obesity treatment have some limitations and side effects. Flavonoids are active constituents with various biological activities, widely found in plants, and numerous studies have shown that flavonoids can inhibit obesity and related metabolism disorders effectively. This perspective reviews the recent progress in understanding the anti-obesity effects of flavonoids through modulating food intake, enzyme activities, nutrition absorption, adipogenesis and adipocyte lifecycle, thermogenesis, energy consumption, and intestinal microbiota. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Natural bioactive substance flavonoids have anti-obesity property, which may play a role in anti-obesity drugs or functional food without any side effects. Flavonoids can inhibit weight gain directly or through their biologically active metabolites by various potential pathways. A better understanding of the modulatory effect and the mechanism of flavonoids on obesity will allow us to better utilize flavonoids in plants to treat obesity and related metabolic syndrome.

Green satsuma mandarin orange (Citrus unshiu) extract reduces adiposity and induces uncoupling protein expression in skeletal muscle of obese mice

Increased fat mass, which is induced by the storage of excess nutrients, is considered a causal factor for various metabolic disorders, including insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, hyperlipidemia, hyperglycemia, hypertension, atherosclerosis, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Therefore, it is necessary to prevent hyperadiposity to sustain a healthy life. Recently, uncoupling proteins (UCPs) were suggested to be molecular targets for curing obesity and its complications. In this study, green satsuma mandarin orange (Citrus unshiu) extract (GME) increased UCP3 expression in cultured myocytes. In a diet-induced obese animal model, administration of GME reduced fat mass and average fat cell size. Similar to in vitro experiments, GME restored expression of UCP3 in skeletal muscle. Moreover, GME also induced UCP2 expression in skeletal muscle. In conclusion, GME is suggested to be a novel functional dietary supplement for adiposity control through induction of UCPs.

In Vitro Inhibition of α-Amylase and α-Glucosidase by Extracts from Psiadia punctulata and Meriandra bengalensis

BACKGROUND

This research assessed the in vitro antidiabetic activity and phytochemical constituents of the traditionally used medicinal plants, Psiadia punctulata and Meriandra bengalensis.

METHOD

The leaves of both plants were subjected to cold extraction method using 70% ethanol and hot Soxhlet extraction using n-hexane, chloroform, methanol, and distilled water. The extracts were studied for their effect on glucose transport across yeast cells and inhibition of α-amylase and α-glucosidase enzyme activities. Thin-layer chromatographic analysis of ethanol extract was also undertaken.

RESULTS

The results of yeast glucose uptake assay revealed that extracts from both plants had a maximum increase in glucose uptake at the 25mM glucose concentration with a maximum dose of 2000μg/ml plant extract. The ethanol extract of P. punctulata and aqueous extract of M. bengalensis showed a high activity of 68% and 96%, respectively, at 25mM and 2000μg/ml of glucose and extract concentration. P. punctulata exerted peak inhibition activity of α-amylase of 37.5 ± 3% mg/dl (IC50 = 0.523 mg/dl) for methanol and distilled water extract at 0.5 mg/dl, respectively. M. bengalensis methanol extract exhibited the highest inhibition activity of 38 ± 8 % mg/dl (IC50 = 0.543 mg/dl) at 0.5 mg/dl. In the α-glucosidase inhibition assay, the methanolic extract of P. punctulata exhibited the highest inhibitory activity of 17.29 ± 9% mg/dl (IC50 = 0.761 mg/dl) at 0.5mg/dl. The chloroform extract of M. bengalensis had the highest inhibitory activity of 30 ± 5% mg/dl (IC50 = 0.6mg/dl) at 0.5 mg/dL. Phytochemical analysis of the different extracts of P. punctulata and M. bengalensis revealed the presence of flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins, saponins, phytosterols, and carbohydrates. Thin-layer chromatography analysis of ethanolic extract of both plants indicated presence of 15 and 17 spots for P. punctulata and M. bengalensis respectively.

CONCLUSION

P. punctulata and M. bengalensis extracts have moderate inhibitory activity against pancreatic α-amylase and relatively low inhibitory activities against α-glucosidase. The observed effects may be associated with the presence of flavonoids, saponins, and alkaloids. Additional in vivo analysis, toxicological studies, isolation, and structural characterization of the phytomolecules identified in this study and molecular docking studies should be undertaken.

Paljung-San, a traditional herbal medicine, attenuates benign prostatic hyperplasia in vitro and in vivo

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Paljung-san is a traditional herbal medicine used widely for the treatment of urogenital diseases in East Asia. However, scientific evidence of the efficacy of Paljung-san and its mechanisms of action against benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is not clearly established.

AIM OF THE STUDY

We investigated the inhibitory effect of Paljung-san water extract (PSWE) and its mechanisms against BPH in vitro and in vivo.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Active compounds of PSWE were analyzed quantitatively by High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). For in vitro study, PSWE treated BPH-1 cells were used to perform western blot analysis, cell cycle analysis and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. For in vivo BPH model, male rats were subcutaneously injected with 10 mg/kg of testosterone propionate (TP) every day for four weeks. 200 and 500 mg/kg of PSWE was administrated daily by oral gavage with s.c. injection of TP, respectively.

RESULTS

HPLC revealed that PSWE contains 1.21, 1.18, 2.27, 3.56, 4.23, 3.00, 6.78, and 0.004 mg/g of gallic acid, 5-caffeoylquinic acid, chlorogenic acid, geniposide, liquiritin apioside, liquiritin, glycyrrhizin, and chrysophanol components, respectively. In human BPH-1 cells, PSWE treatment reduced cell proliferation through arresting the cell cycle in the DNA synthesis phase. Moreover, PSWE suppressed prostaglandin E₂ production with reduced cyclooxygenase-2 expression. In TP -induced BPH rat model, PSWE administration showed reduced prostate weights and dihydrotestosterone levels and led to a restoration of normal prostate morphology. PSWE also decreased TP-induced Ki-67 and cyclin D1 protein levels in the prostatic tissues. Decreased glutathione reductase activity and increased malondialdehyde levels in the BPH groups were reversed by PSWE administration.

CONCLUSION

PSWE attenuates the progression of BPH through anti-proliferative, anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant activities in vitro and in vivo. Therefore, these data provide the scientific evidence of pharmacological efficacy of PSWE against BPH.

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.

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.

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.

Triglycerides Revisited to the Serial

This review discusses the role of triglycerides (TGs) in the normal cardiovascular system as well as in the development and clinical manifestation of cardiovascular diseases. Regulation of TGs at the enzymatic and genetic level, in addition to their possible relevance as preclinical and clinical biomarkers, is discussed, culminating with a description of available and emerging treatments. Due to the high complexity of the subject and the vast amount of material in the literature, the objective of this review was not to exhaust the subject, but rather to compile the information to facilitate and improve the understanding of those interested in this topic. The main publications on the topic were sought out, especially those from the last 5 years. The data in the literature still give reason to believe that there is room for doubt regarding the use of TG as disease biomarkers; however, there is increasing evidence for the role of hypertriglyceridemia on the atherosclerotic inflammatory process, cardiovascular outcomes, and mortality.

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.

Therapeutic phytogenic compounds for obesity and diabetes

Natural compounds have been used to develop drugs for many decades. Vast diversities and minimum side effects make natural compounds a good source for drug development. However, the composition and concentrations of natural compounds can vary. Despite this inconsistency, half of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved pharmaceuticals are natural compounds or their derivatives. Therefore, it is essential to continuously investigate natural compounds as sources of new pharmaceuticals. This review provides comprehensive information and analysis on natural compounds from plants (phytogenic compounds) that may serve as anti-obesity and/or anti-diabetes therapeutics. Our growing understanding and further exploration of the mechanisms of action of the phytogenic compounds may afford opportunities for development of therapeutic interventions in metabolic diseases.

The effects of glucose and lipids in steatotic and non-steatotic livers in conditions of partial hepatectomy under ischaemia-reperfusion

BACKGROUND

Steatosis is a risk factor in partial hepatectomy (PH) under ischaemia-reperfusion (I/R), which is commonly applied in clinical practice to reduce bleeding. Nutritional support strategies, as well as the role of peripheral adipose tissue as energy source for liver regeneration, remain poorly investigated.

AIMS

To investigate whether the administration of either glucose or a lipid emulsion could protect steatotic and non-steatotic livers against damage and regenerative failure in an experimental model of PH under I/R. The relevance of peripheral adipose tissue in liver regeneration following surgery is studied.

METHODS

Steatotic and non-steatotic rat livers were subjected to surgery and the effects of either glucose or lipid treatment on damage and regeneration, and part of the underlying mechanisms, were investigated.

RESULTS

In non-steatotic livers, treatment with lipids or glucose provided the same protection against damage, regeneration failure and ATP drop. Adipose tissue was not required to regenerate non-steatotic livers. In the presence of hepatic steatosis, lipid treatment, but not glucose, protected against damage and regenerative failure by induction of cell cycle, maintenance of ATP levels and elevation of sphingosine-1-phosphate/ceramide ratio and phospholipid levels. Peripheral adipose tissue was required for regenerating the steatotic liver but it was not used as an energy source.

CONCLUSION

Lipid treatment in non-steatotic livers provides the same protection as that afforded by glucose in conditions of PH under I/R, whereas the treatment with lipids is preferable to reduce the injurious effects of liver surgery in the presence of steatosis.

Pasture v. standard dairy cream in high-fat diet-fed mice: improved metabolic outcomes and stronger intestinal barrier

Dairy products derived from the milk of cows fed in pastures are characterised by higher amounts of conjugated linoleic acid and α-linolenic acid (ALA), and several studies have shown their ability to reduce cardiovascular risk. However, their specific metabolic effects compared with standard dairy in a high-fat diet (HFD) context remain largely unknown; this is what we determined in the present study with a focus on the metabolic and intestinal parameters. The experimental animals were fed for 12 weeks a HFD containing 20 % fat in the form of a pasture dairy cream (PDC) or a standard dairy cream (SDC). Samples of plasma, liver, white adipose tissue, duodenum, jejunum and colon were analysed. The PDC mice, despite a higher food intake, exhibited lower fat mass, plasma and hepatic TAG concentrations, and inflammation in the adipose tissue than the SDC mice. Furthermore, they exhibited a higher expression of hepatic PPARα mRNA and adipose tissue uncoupling protein 2 mRNA, suggesting an enhanced oxidative activity of the tissues. These results might be explained, in part, by the higher amounts of ALA in the PDC diet and in the liver and adipose tissue of the PDC mice. Moreover, the PDC diet was found to increase the proportions of two strategic cell populations involved in the protective function of the intestinal epithelium, namely Paneth and goblet cells in the small intestine and colon, compared with the SDC diet. In conclusion, a PDC HFD leads to improved metabolic outcomes and to a stronger gut barrier compared with a SDC HFD. This may be due, at least in part, to the protective mechanisms induced by specific lipids.

Licorice flavonoid oil reduces total body fat and visceral fat in overweight subjects: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study

SUMMARY

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate effects of licorice flavonoid oil (LFO) on total body fat and visceral fat together with body weight, body mass index (BMI) and safety parameters in overweight subjects.

METHODS

In this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, moderately overweight participants (56 males, 28 females, BMI 24-30 kg/m(2)) were assigned to four groups receiving a daily dose of either 0 (placebo), 300, 600, or 900 mg of LFO. Total body fat mass was measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) and visceral fat area by abdominal computed tomography (CT) scan at baseline and after 8 weeks of LFO ingestion. Body weight, BMI, and blood samples were examined at baseline and after 4 and 8 weeks of LFO ingestion.

RESULTS

Although caloric intake was similar in all four groups, total body fat mass decreased significantly in the three LFO groups after 8 weeks of ingestion. LFO (900 mg/day) resulted in significant decreases from baseline levels in visceral fat area, body weight, BMI, and LDL-cholesterol. No significant adverse effects were observed.

Effect of licorice flavonoid oil on cholesterol metabolism in high fat diet rats

Dietary licorice fravonoid oil (LFO) significantly decreased hepatic cholesterol and plasma lipoprotein cholesterol levels in high-fat diet rats. It significantly suppressed hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA synthase activity and increased cholesterol 7α-hydroxylase activity. The low density lipoprotein receptor mRNA level was significantly increased by LFO. These results suggest that dietary LFO improves cholesterol metabolism in obese animals.

Food ingredients as anti-obesity agents: a review

Overweight and obesity have a major impact on global health; their prevalence has rapidly increased in all industrialized countries in the past few decades and diabetes and hypertension are their direct consequences. Pharmacotherapy provides reinforcement for obesity treatment, but should be an adjunctive support to diet, exercise, and lifestyle modification. At present, only orlistat and sibutramine have been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for long-term use, but sibutramine was withdrawn for sale by the European Medicines Agency. The development of functional foods for the prevention and/or treatment of obesity suppose an opportunity for the food market and involve the knowledge of the mechanisms of appetite and energy expenditure as well as the metabolic sensation of satiety. Strategies for weight control management affect gut hormones as potential targets for the appetite metabolic regulation, stimulation of energy expenditure (thermogenesis), and modifications in the metabolic activity of the gut microbiota. Functional foods for obesity may also include bioactive fatty acids, phenolic compounds, soybean, plant sterols, dietary calcium, and dietary fiber. This review intends to offer an overview of the present situation of the anti-obesity agents currently used in dietary therapy as well as some functional food ingredients with potentially anti-obesity effects.

Flavonoids and metabolic syndrome

Increasing evidence indicates that several mechanisms, associated or not with antioxidant actions, are involved in the effects of flavonoids on health. Flavonoid-rich beverages, foods, and extracts, as well as pure flavonoids are studied for the prevention and/or amelioration of metabolic syndrome (MS) and MS-associated diseases. We summarize evidence linking flavonoid consumption with the risk factors defining MS: obesity, hypertriglyceridemia, hypercholesterolemia, hypertension, and insulin resistance. Nevertheless, a number of molecular mechanisms have been identified; the effects of flavonoids modifying major endpoints of MS are still inconclusive. These difficulties are explained by the complex relationships among the risk factors defining MS, the multiple biological targets controlling these risk factors, and the high number of flavonoids (including their metabolites) present in the diet and potentially responsible for the in vivo effects. Consequently, extensive basic and clinical research is warranted to assess the final relevance of flavonoids for MS.

Quality assessment and anti-obesity activity of Stellaria media (Linn.) Vill

BACKGROUND

Obesity is recognized as a social problem, associated with serious health risks and increased mortality. Numerous trials have been conducted to find and develop new anti-obesity drugs through herbal sources to minimize side effects associated with the present anti-obesity drugs. The present study was designed to evaluate the quality control parameters, quantitative phytochemical analysis (total phenolic, total flavonoids and total saponin content), and the anti-obesity effect of lyophilized juice (LJ) of Stellaria media (Linn.) Vill. by employing in vitro and in vivo models.

METHODS

In vitro studies were performed to evaluate the inhibitory activity of LJ on pancreatic amylase and lipase. The in vivo pancreatic lipase activity was evaluated by measurement of plasma triacylglycerol levels after oral administration of lipid emulsion to swiss albino mice. Furthermore, the anti-obesity effect of LJ was assessed at two doses, 400 mg/kg and 900 mg/kg body weight in mice fed a high-fat-diet with or without LJ for 6 weeks.

RESULTS

The LJ inhibited pancreatic amylase and lipase activity in vitro and elevated plasma triacylglycerol level in mice. LJ suppressed the increase in body weight, retroperitoneal adipose tissue, liver weights and serum parameters viz., total cholesterol, total triglyceride, LDL-cholesterol level at the dose of 900 mg/kg body weight of the mice fed with high fat diet. The total phenolic, flavonoid and saponin contents were found to be 0.26 mg/g, 1.4 mg/g and 1.19 μg/g respectively of LJ.

CONCLUSION

The anti-obesity effects of LJ in high-fat-diet fed mice may be partly mediated through delaying the intestinal absorption of dietary fat and carbohydrate by inhibiting digestive enzymes.

Natural products: a safest approach for obesity

Obesity is recognized as a social problem, associated with serious health risks and increased mortality. Numerous trials have been conducted to find and develop new anti-obesity drugs through herbal sources to minimize adverse reactions associated with the present anti-obesity drugs. The use of natural products as medicine has been documented for hundreds of years in various traditional systems of medicines throughout the world. This review focuses on the medicinal plants such as Achyranthus aspera, Camellia sinensis, Emblica officinalis, Garcinia cambogia, Terminalia arjuna, etc., being used traditionally in Ayurvedic, Unani, Siddha and Chinese, etc., systems of medicine. The review also highlights recent reported phytochemicals such as escins, perennisosides, dioscin, gracillin, etc., and the various extracts of the plants like Nelumbo nucifera, Panax japonicas, Cichorium intybus, Cyperus rotundus, Paeonia suffruticosa, etc., which have been successfully identified for the treatment of obesity.

Assessment of Antiobesity Potential of Achyranthes aspera Linn. Seed

The present study was designed to evaluate the quality control parameters, quantitative phytochemical analysis (total phenols, total flavonoids, and total saponin content), and the antiobesity effect of ethanol extract of Achyranthes aspera Linn. seed (EAA) by employing in vitro and in vivo models. In in vitro study, the inhibitory activity of EAA on pancreatic amylase and lipase was measured. The in vivo pancreatic lipase activity was evaluated by measurement of plasma triacylglycerol levels after oral administration of EAA along with lipid emulsion to Swiss albino mice. The EAA inhibited pancreatic amylase and lipase activity in vitro and elevations of plasma triacylglycerol level in mice. Furthermore, the antiobesity effect of EAA (900 mg/kg) was assessed in mice fed a high-fat diet with or without EAA for 6 weeks. EAA significantly suppressed the increase in body, retroperitoneal adipose tissue, liver weights, and serum parameters, namely; total cholesterol, total triglyceride, and LDL-cholesterol level. The anti obesity effects of EAA in high-fat-diet-treated mice may be partly mediated through delaying the intestinal absorption of dietary fat by inhibiting pancreatic amylase and lipase activity. Histopathological effects of EAA on the liver of mice were also assessed.

Dietary Coleus forskohlii extract generates dose-related hepatotoxicity in mice

Coleus forskohlii root extract (CFE) represented by its bioactive constituent 'forskolin' is popularly used as a natural weight-lowering product, but the association of its use with liver-related risks is very limited. In the present study, the effect of standardized CFE with 10% forskolin on liver function of mice was examined. Mice were given 0-5% CFE in an AIN93G-based diet for 3-5 weeks. Food intake, body weights, relative organ weights and liver marker enzymes [aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP)] combined with histophatological analysis were assessed. CFE (0-0.5%) only had minimal effects on food intake and body weight whereas a significant difference was observed in mice receiving the highest dose (5% CFE). The extract 0.05-5% dose-dependently decreased visceral fat weight by between 16% and 63%, and a dose-dependent several folds increase was observed in liver weights and plasma AST, ALT and ALP activities with quick onset apparent after only 1 week of 0.5% CFE intake. The hepatic effect persisted throughout the 3-weeks course but was restored towards normalization within 1 week after withdrawal of treatment. Liver histology of mice fed 0.5% CFE for 3 weeks showed hepatocyte hypertrophy and fat deposition. In contrast, none of the hepatic responses measured were altered when mice were given a diet containing pure forskolin alone at the dose corresponding to its content in 0.5% CFE. The present study clearly indicated that forskolin was not involved in the CFE-induced hepatotoxicity and was caused by other unidentified constituents in CFE which warrants further studies.

Homology modelling of CB1 receptor and selection of potential inhibitor against Obesity

Obesity and patient morbidity has become a health concern worldwide. Obesity is associated with over activity of the endocannabinoid system, which is involved in the regulation of appetite, lipogenesis and insulin resistance. Hypothalamic cannabinoid-1 receptor (CB1R) inverse agonists reduce body weight and improve cardiometabolic abnormalities in experimental and human obesity but displayed neuropsychiatric side effects. Hence, there is a need to develop therapeutics which employs blocking peripheral CB1 receptors and still achieve substantial weight loss. In view of the same, adipose tissue CB1 receptors are employed for this study since it is more specific in reducing visceral fat. Computer aided structure based virtual screening finds application to screen novel inhibitors and develop highly selective and potential drug. The rational drug design requires crystal structure for the CB1 receptor. However, the structure for the CB1 receptor is not available in its native form. Thus, we modelled the crystal structure using a lipid G-Protein coupled receptor (PDB: 3V2W, chain A) as template. Furthermore, we have screened a herbal ligand Quercetin [- 2- (3, 4-dihydroxyphenyl) - 3, 5, 7-trihydroxychromen-4-one] a flavonol present in Mimosa pudica based on its better pharmacokinetics and bioavailability profile. This ligand was selected as an ideal lead molecule. The docking of quercetin with CB1 receptor showed a binding energy of -6.56 Kcal/mol with 4 hydrogen bonds, in comparison to the known drug Rimonabant. This data finds application in proposing antagonism of CB1 receptor with Quercetin, for controlling obesity.

AMPK activation with glabridin ameliorates adiposity and lipid dysregulation in obesity

In this study, we demonstrate that activation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) with glabridin alleviates adiposity and hyperlipidemia in obesity. In several obese rodent models, glabridin decreased body weight and adiposity with a concomitant reduction in fat cell size. Further, glabridin ameliorated fatty liver and plasma levels of triglyceride and cholesterol. In accordance with these findings, glabridin suppressed the expression of lipogenic genes such as sterol regulatory element binding transcription factor (SREBP)-1c, fatty acid synthase (FAS), acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC), and stearoyl-CoA desaturase (SCD)-1 in white adipose tissues and liver, whereas it elevated the expression of fatty acid oxidation genes such as carnitine palmitoyl transferase (CPT)1, acyl-CoA oxidase (ACO), and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)α in muscle. Moreover, glabridin enhanced phosphorylation of AMPK in muscle and liver and promoted fatty acid oxidation by modulating mitochondrial activity. Together, these data suggest that glabridin is a novel AMPK activator that would exert therapeutic effects in obesity-related metabolic disorders.

cis-9,trans-11,cis-15 and cis-9,trans-13,cis-15 CLNA mixture activates PPARα in HEK293 and reduces triacylglycerols in 3T3-L1 cells

Scientific research is constantly working to find new molecules that are effective in preventing excessive accumulation of body fat. The aim of the present work was to assess the potential agonism on PPARα and PPARγ of a conjugated linolenic acid (CLNA) isomer mixture, consisting of two CLNA isomers (cis-9,trans-11,cis-15 and cis-9,trans-13,cis-15). Secondly, we aimed to analyze the effects of this mixture on triacylglycerol accumulation in 3T3-L1 mature adipocytes. Luciferase transactivation assay was used to analyze whether the CLNA mixture activated PPARs. The expression of several enzymes and transcriptional factors involved in the main metabolic pathways that control triacylglycerol accumulation in adipocytes was assessed by real time RT-PCR in 3T3-L1 adipocytes treated for 20 h with the CLNA mixture. The mixture activated PPRE in cells with PPARα receptor over-expression, but not those with PPARγ over-expression. Decreased triacylglycerol was found in treated adipocytes. The lowest dose (10 μM) increased HSL expression and the highest dose (100 μM) increased ATGL gene expression. The other genes analyzed remained unchanged. The hypothesis of an anti-obesity action of the analyzed CLNA mixture, based on increased lipid mobilization in adipose tissue, can be proposed.

Solidago chilensis Meyen hydroalcoholic extract reduces JNK/IκB pathway activation and ameliorates insulin resistance in diet-induced obesity mice

Hydroalcoholic extract of Solidago chilensis (Sc) is employed in popular medicine to treat inflammatory disease. The low-grade proinflammatory state and the activation of serine/threonine kinases in adipose tissue, like c-jun kinase (JNK) and IKK, and transcription factors, have an important role in obesity-associated insulin resistance. The aim of this study was to further investigate the effects of the Sc extract on glucose homeostasis in diet-induced obesity mice. Male Swiss mice were randomized to three groups: a control group (C) fed with standard laboratory chow; a group with an experimental high-fat diet (HFD); and a group fed with a high-fat (45% kcal from fat) diet + extract of Sc (via intraperitoneal, 3 mg/kg) (ScHFD). The dietary treatment lasted for eight weeks. Subsequently, the expression and phosphorylation of proteins of interest in the liver, hypothalamus and skeletal muscle were evaluated by Western blot analysis. Body weight, epididymal fat pad mass and liver triglycerides were higher in HFD than in control mice, but these parameters were reduced by intraperitoneal administration of the extracts (3 mg/kg) to the HFD group. AKT phosphorylation stimulated by insulin in the liver, hypothalamus and skeletal muscle was higher in ScHFD as compared with HFD mice. Additionally, liver expression of phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK) and fatty acid synthase were lower in ScHFD as compared with HFD mice. Nuclear factor κB, p-IκB and p-JNK levels were higher in HFD when compared with control mice, but they were lowered by treatment with extract (ScHFD). In addition, in db/db mice, Sc extract also improved liver AKT phosphorylation stimulated by insulin and reduced PEPCK expression. The data presented herein show that Sc improves AKT activation. This effect may be promoted by reduction of the proinflammatory pathway in the liver and hypothalamus. Therefore, systemic action of the Sc components may contribute to improve obesity-associated pathophysiology.

A dual investigation of the effect of dietary supplementation with licorice flavonoid oil on anthropometric and biochemical markers of health and adiposity

Background

Licorice flavonoid oil (LFO) has been reported to minimize visceral adipose tissue gain in obese mice and to result in a decrease in body weight and body fat in humans; the effects of which may be more pronounced when administered in an overfed state.

Methods

We investigated the effects of LFO in two separate studies. Study 1 included a sample of overweight or grade I-II obese men and women (N = 22) who followed their usual dietary and physical activity programs. Study 2 included a sample of athletic men who followed their usual dietary and physical activity programs but consumed a daily supplemental meal (25% above daily energy requirements) in an attempt to induce a state of overfeeding. In both studies, subjects were randomly assigned (double-blind) to either LFO or a placebo for eight weeks, and anthropometric and multiple biochemical outcomes (e.g., markers of oxidative stress, markers of insulin sensitivity, blood lipids, etc.) were obtained before and following the intervention.

Results

No differences of statistical significance were noted between LFO and placebo for any measured variable in Study 1 or Study 2. When investigating the percent change from baseline for data in Study 2, although not of statistical significance, subjects in the LFO condition experienced less overall fat gain, as well as attenuation in the elevation in selected blood lipids (e.g., cholesterol, LDL-C, and triglycerides).

Conclusion

These combined data indicate little effect of LFO supplementation within a sample of overweight/obese men and women or athletic men, with the possible exception of attenuation in body fat gain and selected components of the blood lipid panel in response to an overfeeding condition.

Improvement of obesity phenotype by Chinese sweet leaf tea (Rubus suavissimus) components in high-fat diet-induced obese rats

Drinking an herbal tea to lose weight is a well-liked concept. This study was designed to examine the possible improvement of obesity phenotype by a new tea represented by its purified components, gallic acid, ellagic acid, and rubusoside (GER). Male obese-prone SD rats were given low-fat diet, high-fat diet, or high-fat diet plus GER at the dose of 0.22 g/kg of body weight for 9 weeks. GER significantly reduced body weight gain by 22% compared to the high-fat diet control group with 48% less abdominal fat gain. Food intake was not affected. Blood glucose was lowered in the GER-treated group, whereas serum triglycerides and cholesterol were significantly reduced by 50%. This improved obesity phenotype may be associated with the attenuated expression of vascular endothelial growth factor in preadipocyte 3T3-L1 cells. Although other underlying, possibly multiple, mechanisms behind the improved phenotype are largely unknown, the observed improvement of multiple obesity-related parameters by the new tea warrants further investigations.

Flavonoids from Halostachys caspica and their antimicrobial and antioxidant activities

Seven flavonoids have been isolated from the aerial parts of Halostachys caspica C. A. Mey. (Chenopodiaceae) for the first time. By means of physicochemical and spectrometric analysis, they were identified as luteolin (1), chrysin (2), chrysin 7-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (3), quercetin (4), quercetin 3-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (5), isorhamentin-3-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (6), and isorhamentin-3-O-β-D-rutinoside (7). All flavonoids were evaluated to show a broad antimicrobial spectrum of activity on microorganisms including seven bacterial and one fungal species as well as pronounced antioxidant activity. Among them, the aglycones with relatively low polarity had stronger bioactivity than their glycosides. The results suggested that the isolated flavonoids could be used for future development of antimicrobial and antioxidant agents, and also provided additional data for supporting the use of H. caspica as forage.

The molecular mechanism underlying the reduction in abdominal fat accumulation by licorice flavonoid oil in high fat diet-induced obese rats

Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) has been widely used in traditional medicines, and its flavonoid oil (LFO) decreases abdominal adipose tissue weight in mammals. In the present study, we investigated the molecular mechanisms underlying the decrease in abdominal adipose tissue weight by LFO. LFO significantly decreased the mRNA levels of rate-limiting enzymes in the hepatic fatty acid synthetic pathway, whereas LFO significantly increased the mRNA levels of a rate-limiting enzyme in the hepatic fatty acid oxidative pathway. LFO significantly decreased the mRNA levels of sterol regulatory element-binding protein-1c (SREBP-1c) (a transcription factor that promotes hepatic fatty acid synthesis), whereas the mRNA levels of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-alpha (PPAR-alpha) (a transcription factor that promotes hepatic fatty acid oxidation) was significantly increased. All our findings suggest that the decrease in abdominal adipose tissue weight by LFO is mediated by the transcriptional regulation of SREBP-1c and PPAR-alpha in the liver. Thus, we infer that the natural ingredient LFO is a promising candidate for use as a feed additive to reduce abdominal fat accumulation in domestic animals.