Phytomedicine Plus (Aug 2022)
Benefits of a fixed-dose combination of standardized P. mume extract with choline on adipose tissue mitochondrial metabolic activity and pancreatic β-islet secretory capacity in mice
Abstract
Background: A fixed dose combination (FDC) of P.mume standardized extract with choline, was shown to provide significant benefit to the early stages of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Purpose: Given the close association of NAFLD with obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus, in this study we investigated how this FDC may also benefit adipose tissue metabolic activity and pancreatic β-islet insulin secretion. Study design: Groups of C57BL/6 mice fed high-fat diet were treated with FDC or left untreated for a period of 15 or 24 weeks. Methods: Plasma and adipose tissue samples were isolated and biochemical and molecular analyses were performed. Mitochondrial uncoupling protein 1 (Ucp1) and Cytochrome C (CytC)protein levels were used as biomarkers of non-shivering thermogenesis and oxidative phosphorylation respectively. Pancreatic β-islet secretory capacity was assessed by glucose stimulated insulin secretion assay. Results: Our data indicate that treatment of mice with this FDC resulted in significant and persistent weight loss due to increased brown adipose tissue mitochondrial non-shivering thermogenesis through Ucp1. Moreover, treated mice presented improved glucose tolerance compared to their untreated counterparts, due to improved pancreatic β-islet secretory capacity. A significant benefit on hepatic lipid deposition and NAFLD development was also noted, consistent with the findings from previous clinical trials. Conclusions: Our findings support that in addition to the early stages of NAFLD, this FDC provides significant pharmacological benefit on weight loss and plasma glucose homeostasis. These finding may have significant implications on the prediabetic state where nutritional and lifestyle changes is the only recommended strategy.
