Mechanisms associated with the effect of Hypericum perforatum and Smilax cordifolia aqueous extracts on hepatic steatosis in obese rats: a lipidomic approach

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of H. perforatum and S. cordifolia extracts on hepatic steatosis in obese rats, and to elucidate their mechanisms through a lipidomic analysis. Fifty‐seven phytochemical compounds were identified in H. perforatum and S. cordifolia aqueous extracts by UPLC‐QTOF MS^E. Both herbal aqueous extracts ameliorated hepatic steatosis. S. cordifolia modulated arachidonic acid, 16:0‐, 16:1‐ and 18:0‐derived TAG, ceramides, and diacylglycerols, regulating the expression of genes involved in fatty acid (Fas, Acc, and Scd1), diacylglyceride (Gpat) and ceramide (Spt1) biosynthesis, and β‐oxidation (Cpt1 and Acadm). H. perforatum regulated eicosapentanoic acid metabolism, which was associated to Fabp down‐regulation. Both extracts reduced hepatic TNF‐α and IL‐6 levels, which was associated to eicosanoid pathway regulation by S. cordifolia and the modulation of phosphatidylcholines and phosphatidylethanolamines by H. perforatum. These results suggest that these aqueous extracts could be used as ingredients for the elaboration of functional beverages with hepatoprotective effects.

Practical applications: This study propose a lipidomic approach followed by the integration of metabolic networks for the identification of the mechanisms associated with the hepatoprotective effect of herbal extracts. The results obtained in this study demonstrate the beneficial effect of S. cordifolia and H. perforatum aqueous extracts on hepatic steatosis in high‐fat and fructose diet‐fed obese rats. Therefore, these herbs can be used for the elaboration of functional beverages.

https://ift.tt/2zwPWHj