Monascinol from Monascus pilosus-fermented rice exhibits hypolipidemic effects by regulating cholesterol and lipid metabolism

Abstract

Monascinol (Msol), a novel yellow pigment produced in red mold rice (RMR) fermented by Monascus pilosus SWM-008, has a structure similar to monascin (MS), suggesting potential lipid-regulating properties. Therefore, this study investigated the hypolipidemic effects and mechanisms of Msol in a hyperlipidemic hamster model induced by a high-fat, high-cholesterol diet, comparing its efficacy to MS. The results demonstrated that Msol exerts a hypolipidemic effect by reducing the expression of fatty acid synthase (FASN) and sterol regulatory element-binding protein 2 (SREBP2) in the liver, while also increasing the excretion of triglycerides and bile acids in the feces of hyperlipidemic hamsters. Furthermore, we found that Msol surpasses the commonly observed red mold rice yellow pigment MS in AMPK phosphorylation. Additionally, Msol was more effective than MS in regulating triglyceride levels and alleviating inflammation. These findings position Msol as a promising new functional ingredient in RMR for hypolipidemic effects.

Keywords

• Monascinol
• Monascus pilosus
• Red mold rice
• Hyperlipidemia
• Cholesterol and lipid metabolism regulation