Anti-obesity effect of Morus bombycis root extract: anti-lipase activity and lipolytic effect.

摘要

AIM OF THE STUDY: This study evaluated anti-obesity effect of the ethanolic extract of Morus bombycis root on lipase activity and lipolysis in adipocytes and adipose tissues. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Lipase (triacylgycerol acylhydrolase, EC 3.1.1.3) activity was determined by measuring the hydrolysis of p-nitrophenyl butyrate to p-nitrophenol at 405 nm. Lipolytic effects were assayed in fully differentiated 3T3-L1 adipocytes and adipose tissues. In vitro, phosphodiesterase (PDE) activity was also measured. RESULTS: Morus bombycis root extract exhibited strong anti-lipase activity, with an IC50 value of 2.07 microg/mL.In differentiated adipocytes and adipose tissues, the extract increased lipolytic effects such as decreased intracellular triglyceride and the release of glycerol. Further, the extract inhibited PDE activity in a dose-dependent manner. CONCLUSION: The present study suggests that Morus bombycis root extract might be of therapeutic interest with respect to the treatment of obesity.