“Regulation of Obesity and Fatty Liver by Moringa oleifera: Insights into Inflammatory Pathways”

Abstract

Obesity and fatty liver are relatively benign states but continued inflammatory stress and its metabolic implications turn them into one of the most devastating diseases of humankind. Generally, obesity and fatty liver precede diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular problems and malignant growths. The present research aimed to explore the efficacy of methanolic extract of Moringa Olifera (Me.MO) for the management of obesity and fatty liver and related inflammatory state that prime the body for devastating effects. A series of in-vitro and in-vivo studies were employed. Data from HPLC analysis confirmed the presence of flavonoids and phenolic acids. Rats were fed on either normal diet (ND) or high fat diet (HFD and streptozocin (STZ) in the presence or absence of Me.Mo (250 mg/kg & 500 mg/kg) or metformin (70 mg/kg). Findings showed that rats received 500 mg/kg Me.MO showed a significant (p > 0.01) decrease in body weights, liver weights, and plasma glucose level. Laboratory data exhibited a significant (p < 0.05) inhibitory effect on Me.MO on pro-inflammatory mediators (IL-1B and TNF) and caused a sharp increase in anti-inflammatory cytokines levels (IL-10, IL-6 and COX-2) in all treatment groups. Histopathological analysis exhibited no structural and functional alteration in the liver and adipose tissues. Altogether, Me.MO ameliorates experimentally induced obesity accompanying fatty liver and inflammatory stress. However, further investigations are still needed to confirm the safety and efficacy of Moringa beta olifera (MO) for clinical application.