Sign in to use this feature.

Years

Between: -

Subjects

remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline

Journals

remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline

Article Types

Countries / Regions

remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline

Search Results (2,535)

Search Parameters:
Keywords = diet-induced obesity

Order results
Result details
Results per page
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:
25 pages, 9628 KB  
Article
A Synbiotic of Lacto-N-tetraose and Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis MN-Gup Attenuates High-Fat Diet-Induced Obesity by Modulating Metabolism and Gut Microbiota in Mice
by Ying Luo, Yang Li, Linjun Wu, Xiaoqiong Li, Xiangyu Bian, Jian Kuang, Jianqiang Li, Fangshu Shi, Xuguang Zhang, Xiaoqiang Han, Jinzhu Pang, Jinjun Li and Haibiao Sun
Nutrients 2026, 18(11), 1681; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu18111681 - 24 May 2026
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Obesity is closely associated with gut microbiota dysbiosis, intestinal barrier dysfunction, and impaired glucose and lipid metabolism. However, single probiotic or prebiotic interventions often yield only limited metabolic improvements. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of a synbiotic formulation comprising Lacto- [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Obesity is closely associated with gut microbiota dysbiosis, intestinal barrier dysfunction, and impaired glucose and lipid metabolism. However, single probiotic or prebiotic interventions often yield only limited metabolic improvements. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of a synbiotic formulation comprising Lacto-N-tetraose (LNT) and Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis MN-Gup (MN-Gup) in a high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obese mouse model. Methods: In this study, an HFD-induced obese mouse model was used to investigate whether the synbiotic formulation of LNT and MN-Gup could ameliorate obesity-related metabolic dysregulation, intestinal barrier dysfunction, and gut microbiota imbalance. Mice were treated with LNT alone, MN-Gup alone, or the synbiotic at different doses. Serum biochemical parameters, glucose tolerance, lipid profiles, liver histopathology, intestinal barrier markers, gut microbiota composition, short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) levels were analyzed. Results: High-dose synbiotic intervention significantly outperformed single-component treatments in reducing weight gain, improving glucose tolerance and lipid profiles, and attenuating hepatic lipid accumulation and injury in mice. These metabolic changes were accompanied by improved markers of intestinal barrier integrity and modulation of gut microbiota composition, characterized by the enrichment of beneficial genera (e.g., Akkermansia, Leuconostoc, and Alistipes) alongside a reduction in obesity-associated taxa (including Desulfovibrionaceae_unclassified, Colidextribacter, Helicobacter, Erysipelatoclostridium, Peptococcaceae_unclassified, and Firmicutes_unclassified). Spearman correlation analysis revealed associative links between microbial alterations and host metabolic markers. Conclusions: Collectively, these findings suggest that the synbiotic formulation comprising high-dose LNT and MN-Gup offers potential benefits for managing high-fat diet-induced metabolic dysregulation in mice. Full article
14 pages, 900 KB  
Review
Restoring Satiety After GLP-1/GIP Pharmacotherapy: Metabolic Stability, Diet Quality, and the Gut Microbiota
by Lidia Lasik and Natalia Ukleja-Sokołowska
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(11), 4658; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27114658 - 22 May 2026
Viewed by 203
Abstract
GLP-1 receptor agonists and dual GLP-1/GIP agonists have significantly transformed the treatment of obesity, enabling clinically meaningful weight reduction and improvements in cardiometabolic parameters. However, clinical trial data indicate that cessation of therapy is associated with biologically driven weight regain and a partial [...] Read more.
GLP-1 receptor agonists and dual GLP-1/GIP agonists have significantly transformed the treatment of obesity, enabling clinically meaningful weight reduction and improvements in cardiometabolic parameters. However, clinical trial data indicate that cessation of therapy is associated with biologically driven weight regain and a partial loss of metabolic benefits. This phenomenon underscores the chronic nature of obesity and the limited durability of effects achieved through pharmacotherapy alone. Nevertheless, structured clinical frameworks describing how to maintain satiety and metabolic stability after GLP-1/GIP dose reduction or discontinuation remain limited. The aim of this narrative review is to discuss the mechanisms underlying weight regain following dose reduction or discontinuation of GLP-1/GIP pharmacotherapy and to present strategies supporting long-term metabolic stabilisation. Weight regain is driven in part by persistent metabolic adaptations, including a reduction in resting energy expenditure (adaptive thermogenesis), alterations in the hunger–satiety axis (increased ghrelin, reduced leptin signalling), and potentially incomplete restoration of adipose tissue and liver-related metabolic function, although direct evidence in this specific setting remains limited. Weight loss is often accompanied by a reduction in fat-free mass, which further lowers energy expenditure and increases susceptibility to a positive energy balance after treatment cessation. It remains unclear whether pharmacological suppression of appetite results in sustained normalisation of endogenous satiety regulation after treatment cessation, and its effects on gut microbiota function remain uncertain. In clinical practice, key priorities include preserving muscle mass (adequate protein intake, resistance training), maintaining dietary nutrient density, stabilising postprandial glycaemia, and ensuring sufficient intake of fermentable fibre to support short-chain fatty acid production and gut–brain signalling. GLP-1/GIP pharmacotherapy should be viewed as a component of an integrated model of obesity treatment. We propose that long-term weight stabilisation may require a transition from pharmacologically induced satiety to satiety supported by diet quality, preserved fat-free mass, and metabolic stability. Further research is needed to define optimal post-treatment strategies and to identify patients in whom therapy can be safely reduced or discontinued. This transition should be regarded as a conceptual framework and forward-looking hypothesis requiring validation in prospective studies. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

25 pages, 911 KB  
Review
Obesity, Low-Grade Chronic Inflammation, and Clinical Outcomes in Spondyloarthritis: A Translational Synthesis
by Andrej Belančić, Mislav Radić, Marija Rogoznica Pavlović, Marijana Vučković, Petra Šimac Prižmić, Elvira Meni Maria Gkrinia, Josipa Radić and Almir Fajkić
Metabolites 2026, 16(5), 347; https://doi.org/10.3390/metabo16050347 - 21 May 2026
Viewed by 125
Abstract
This translational synthesis highlights the potential role of obesity-induced low-grade chronic inflammation in modulating clinical outcomes among patients with spondyloarthritis (SpA). Obesity transforms adipose tissue into a pro-inflammatory endocrine organ, where hypertrophic adipocytes release adipokines such as leptin alongside cytokines including TNF-α and [...] Read more.
This translational synthesis highlights the potential role of obesity-induced low-grade chronic inflammation in modulating clinical outcomes among patients with spondyloarthritis (SpA). Obesity transforms adipose tissue into a pro-inflammatory endocrine organ, where hypertrophic adipocytes release adipokines such as leptin alongside cytokines including TNF-α and IL-6, potentially contributing to macrophage polarization toward an M1 phenotype and activating NF-κB signaling pathways. This systemic immunometabolic priming may lower activation thresholds at the enthesis—the primary pathological site in SpA—potentially amplifying IL-23/IL-17 axis activity via Th17 bias, innate-like lymphocyte responses, and stromal–immune crosstalk under mechanical stress. Clinically, patients with SpA and obesity have been reported to demonstrate heightened disease activity (BASDAI, ASDAS), impaired function (BASFI), accelerated radiographic progression (syndesmophytes, enthesophytes), and diminished biologic response rates, potentially attributable to pharmacokinetic alterations (e.g., subtherapeutic TNF inhibitor levels) and pharmacodynamic resistance. Multisystem comorbidities, including non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, cardiovascular events, metabolic syndrome, sleep disturbances, and depression, further exacerbate morbidity and diminish quality of life. Therapeutic implications emphasize obesity as a modifiable disease modifier. Weight loss interventions, including hypocaloric diets, anti-inflammatory regimens (e.g., Mediterranean diet), multicomponent exercise, GLP-1 receptor agonists, and bariatric surgery, have been associated with reductions in inflammatory biomarkers, improved remission rates (MDA, DAPSA), and prolonged drug survival by restoring adipokine balance and disrupting mechano-inflammatory loops. Future randomized controlled trials should prioritize long-term evaluations of integrated multidisciplinary strategies that combine metabolic optimization with immunomodulatory therapies, addressing adherence challenges through psychological support and patient-tailored protocols, while elucidating dose–response relationships for GLP-1RAs and exercise in diverse SpA subtypes to establish precision management paradigms that mitigate cardiometabolic burden and improve holistic outcomes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Cell Metabolism)
Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 26128 KB  
Article
miR-27a Suppresses Mitochondrial Function to Promote Hepatic Steatosis in High-Fat-Diet-Induced Obesity
by Zhiyi Yu, Xuehan Yang, Bin Sun, Yuhan Jiang, Yanfei Shi, Meishuang Zhang, Siwei Zhang and Fengying Guan
Molecules 2026, 31(10), 1753; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules31101753 - 20 May 2026
Viewed by 135
Abstract
Non-coding RNAs are pivotal regulators of metabolic disease pathogenesis, yet the role of microRNA-27a (miR-27a) in obesity-associated hepatic steatosis remains incompletely characterized. This study examined the functional contribution and molecular mechanism of miR-27a in regulating hepatocyte mitochondrial homeostasis and lipid metabolism. Utilizing in [...] Read more.
Non-coding RNAs are pivotal regulators of metabolic disease pathogenesis, yet the role of microRNA-27a (miR-27a) in obesity-associated hepatic steatosis remains incompletely characterized. This study examined the functional contribution and molecular mechanism of miR-27a in regulating hepatocyte mitochondrial homeostasis and lipid metabolism. Utilizing in vivo mouse models, including low-fat diet controls, high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obesity, and gain- and loss-of-function approaches, miR-27a was found to be markedly upregulated in the serum and liver of obese mice, correlating with disrupted glucose and lipid homeostasis as well as hepatic steatosis. Mechanistically, miR-27a overexpression recapitulated HFD-induced mitochondrial dysfunction, manifested by decreased mitochondrial biogenesis and elevated reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. Conversely, genetic silencing of miR-27a restored mitochondrial integrity and mitigated lipid accumulation. In vitro experiments using HepG2 cells confirmed that miR-27a directly suppresses nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NFE2L2), and NFE2L2 overexpression counteracted miR-27a-induced mitochondrial damage and steatosis. Collectively, these results demonstrate that miR-27a promotes hepatic steatosis by targeting NFE2L2, leading to mitochondrial impairment and oxidative stress, highlighting miR-27a as a potential biomarker and therapeutic target for obesity-associated liver metabolic disorders. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Food Chemistry)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

18 pages, 624 KB  
Review
Ketogenic and Low-Carbohydrate Diets in Prostate Cancer: Metabolic Rationale, Preclinical Evidence, and Preliminary Clinical Data
by Silvia Manfrini, Andrea Malgeri, Carmine Mone, Ludovica Di Francesco, Giulia Pecora, Rossella Mazzilli, Giuseppe Defeudis, Manon Yeganeh Khazrai and Antongiulio Faggiano
J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(10), 3946; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15103946 - 20 May 2026
Viewed by 122
Abstract
Background: Prostate cancer (PCa) is the most commonly diagnosed malignancy in men and a leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. Growing evidence indicates that metabolic syndrome components, including obesity, insulin resistance, and hyperglycemia, contribute to PCa development, and progression to more aggressive form. [...] Read more.
Background: Prostate cancer (PCa) is the most commonly diagnosed malignancy in men and a leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. Growing evidence indicates that metabolic syndrome components, including obesity, insulin resistance, and hyperglycemia, contribute to PCa development, and progression to more aggressive form. At the same time, standard treatments such as androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) and androgen receptor pathway inhibitors (ARPIs) significantly improve oncologic outcomes but are associated with adverse metabolic effects, including increased fat mass, insulin resistance, and sarcopenia, potentially worsening patients’ overall metabolic profile and quality of life. Tumor progression in PCa is strongly driven by androgen receptor (AR) signaling, which is closely linked to cellular metabolic reprogramming, highlighting metabolism as a potential therapeutic target. Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate and synthesize current evidence on the role of the ketogenic diet (KD) in PCa, with particular emphasis on its interaction with hormonal therapies, underlying metabolic and endocrine mechanisms, and its potential application as an adjunctive strategy in integrated oncologic care. Results: The KD, characterized by high fat and very low carbohydrate intake, induces a metabolic state of ketosis that reduces circulating glucose, insulin, and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), potentially counteracting metabolic alterations associated with PCa and its treatments. Preclinical studies consistently demonstrate that carbohydrate restriction and KD can slow tumor growth, modulate key oncogenic pathways such as PI3K/AKT/mTOR, reduce systemic insulin signaling, and enhance survival in prostate cancer models. Additionally, emerging evidence suggests possible synergistic effects when KD is combined with standard therapies, including ADT and immunotherapy. Clinical data, although limited, indicate that low-carbohydrate dietary interventions may improve metabolic parameters and could delay biochemical progression, as suggested by increased prostate-specific antigen (PSA) doubling time. However, results across studies remain heterogeneous, and robust evidence on long-term oncologic outcomes is lacking. Conclusions: Overall, the KD represents a promising but still experimental strategy in PCa management, requiring careful nutritional supervision to avoid adverse effects such as unintended weight loss or sarcopenia. Further well-designed randomized clinical trials are needed to clarify its safety, efficacy, and role in routine clinical practice. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

25 pages, 15227 KB  
Article
NFAT5: A Metabolic Time Capsule Encoding the History of Paternal Metabolic Oxidative Stress Within the Male Reproductive Tract
by Nicola Mosca, Antonella Migliaccio, Teresa Chioccarelli, Donato Cappetta, Antonella De Angelis, Marialucia Telesca, Liberato Berrino, Danila Valletta, Alice Luddi, Chiara Donati, Paola Piomboni, Charles Coutton, Guillaume Martinez, Gilda Cobellis, Chiara Schiraldi, Nicoletta Potenza, Rosanna Chianese and Francesco Manfrevola
Antioxidants 2026, 15(5), 645; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox15050645 - 20 May 2026
Viewed by 231
Abstract
Leydig cells (LCs) represent a somatic testicular population responsible for testosterone synthesis, a hormone essential for spermatogenesis and male fertility. The obesity condition impairs LC steroidogenic activity, contributing to testicular oxidative stress and male reproductive dysfunctions. Using a high-fat-diet (HFD) murine model, we [...] Read more.
Leydig cells (LCs) represent a somatic testicular population responsible for testosterone synthesis, a hormone essential for spermatogenesis and male fertility. The obesity condition impairs LC steroidogenic activity, contributing to testicular oxidative stress and male reproductive dysfunctions. Using a high-fat-diet (HFD) murine model, we investigated the regulatory role of the nuclear factor of activated T cells 5 (NFAT5s) in the obesity-induced LC damage and the resulting alterations in intergenerationally inherited sperm circRNA cargo. Our findings reveal a significant upregulation of both circNFAT5 and NFAT5 protein levels in HFD testis. This molecular signature correlated with decreased antioxidant defense system, increased LC apoptosis, and impaired steroidogenesis. In vitro experiments, performed in TM3 cells, confirmed that NFAT5 nuclear shuttling drives proapoptotic gene activation, while NFAT5 silencing promotes LC survival. The analysis of HFD progeny (F1H) revealed a full recovery of testis oxidative status and LC apoptosis, linked with the recovery of NFAT5 expression. However, a steroidogenic deficiency persisted in F1H offspring. Notably, HFD and F1H epididymides exhibited NFAT5 overexpression concomitantly with impaired sperm morphology, motility, viability, and altered sperm circRNA profiles alongside a deregulated 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal (4HNE) profile, a marker of sperm oxidative stress. Lastly, an enhanced FUS-related amplification of circRNA perturbations was highlighted in F1H spermatozoa. Collectively, our findings reveal a dual functional role of NFAT5 as a testicular regulator of LC fate and an epididymal sentinel of metabolic stress, in turn linking paternal obesity to the persistent transmission of sperm epigenetic anomalies across the offspring. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

21 pages, 11174 KB  
Article
Simulation Effect and Mechanism of High-Polymeric Persimmon Tannin on Simulating Alternate-Day Fasting on Regulating Lipid Metabolism in Obese Mice
by Yajie Zhang, Yunfei Huang, Yawei Xu and Chunmei Li
Nutrients 2026, 18(10), 1608; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu18101608 - 18 May 2026
Viewed by 285
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Obesity represents a significant global health challenge. Although alternate-day fasting (ADF) has been shown to effectively improve metabolic parameters, long-term adherence to this regimen remains limited. This study aimed to investigate whether highly polymerized persimmon tannin (DP31) could serve as a practical [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Obesity represents a significant global health challenge. Although alternate-day fasting (ADF) has been shown to effectively improve metabolic parameters, long-term adherence to this regimen remains limited. This study aimed to investigate whether highly polymerized persimmon tannin (DP31) could serve as a practical alternative to ADF for the prevention of high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obesity in mice. Methods: Male C57BL/6J mice (n = 10 per group) were subjected to an HFD for 11 weeks, during which they concurrently received either DP31 or ADF. Body weight, fat mass, serum lipid levels, glucose tolerance, fasting glucose, and insulin levels were assessed. Additionally, hepatic transcriptomics, Western blotting, 16S rRNA sequencing, and short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) analysis were conducted. Results: DP31 demonstrated comparable efficacy to ADF in reducing body weight gain and improving lipid profiles, while exhibiting superior effects on glucose tolerance and fasting glucose levels (p < 0.05). Both interventions effectively reversed HFD-induced hepatic gene dysregulation, leading to the upregulation of genes involved in processes related to steroid metabolism. In addition, both treatments activated the hepatic AMPK-mTORC1-Lpin1 axis, suppressed lipogenesis, upregulated PGC1α, and increased β-hydroxybutyrate levels, indicating enhanced fatty acid oxidation (p < 0.05). Notably, DP31 outperformed ADF in enriching beneficial gut genera, such as Akkermansia, and boosting SCFAs production, which may elucidate its superior glycemic control. Overall, DP31 exhibits comparable effects to ADF in preventing obesity-related metabolic disorders, while demonstrating superior effects on glucose homeostasis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Lipids)
Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 4855 KB  
Article
GDF15 Improves Renal Injury Induced by Ectopic Lipid Deposition via AMPK/SIRT1 Pathway-Mediated Autophagy
by Qiang Zhang, Xidong Yang, Yuxuan Yang, Min Wang, Yulin Wu, Xin Xie, Yongjun Jin, Ming Yang and Meizi Yang
Metabolites 2026, 16(5), 336; https://doi.org/10.3390/metabo16050336 - 18 May 2026
Viewed by 167
Abstract
Objectives: Obesity precipitates excessive lipid accumulation within the kidney, culminating in ectopic lipid deposition that compromises target organ function through lipotoxicity. Given the pivotal role of GDF15 in lipid metabolism, this study aims to determine whether GDF15 can ameliorate ectopic lipid deposition and [...] Read more.
Objectives: Obesity precipitates excessive lipid accumulation within the kidney, culminating in ectopic lipid deposition that compromises target organ function through lipotoxicity. Given the pivotal role of GDF15 in lipid metabolism, this study aims to determine whether GDF15 can ameliorate ectopic lipid deposition and mitigate the resulting renal injury. Methods: C57BL/6J mice were used to establish a high-fat diet-induced obesity model. Based on Lee’s index, the mice were categorized into a diet-induced obesity group and an obesity-resistant group. Subsequently, the diet-induced obesity group received an injection of AAV-shGFRAL to knock down the GFRAL receptor. Results: In obesity resistant mice, ectopic lipid deposition in the kidneys was markedly reduced, accompanied by decreased expression of the renal injury marker KIM-1 and significantly elevated levels of GDF15. Modulation of the GDF15-GFRAL axis demonstrated that reduced autophagy levels led to increased lipid accumulation and exacerbated renal injury. Conversely, GDF15 activates the AMPK/SIRT1 signaling pathway to promote cellular autophagy, thereby mitigating renal damage induced by ectopic lipid deposition. Consistent with this mechanism, the suppression of autophagy results in the aggravation of renal injury caused by ectopic lipid accumulation. Conclusions: GDF15 ameliorates renal injury induced by ectopic lipid deposition in the kidney primarily through activation of autophagy via the AMPK/SIRT1 signaling pathway. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Nutritional Metabolism and Toxicosis Disease, 2nd Edition)
Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 3631 KB  
Article
Inonotus obliquus Polysaccharides Prevent High-Fat Diet-Induced Obesity in Mice Related to Reshaping Gut Microbiota
by Siying Zhang, Ting Liu, Xian Qu, Wenshuo Zhang, Xue Wu, Yadie Liu, Shouchen Li, Dongyuan Shi, Hongyu Li and Aihua Gong
Foods 2026, 15(10), 1769; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods15101769 - 17 May 2026
Viewed by 202
Abstract
Obesity development is linked to disturbances in the gut microbiota. Inonotus obliquus polysaccharides (IOPs) have potential therapeutic efficacy in alleviating metabolic disorders. However, the mechanism by which IOP prevents obesity via regulating gut microbiota remains elusive. IOP was extracted and structurally characterized by [...] Read more.
Obesity development is linked to disturbances in the gut microbiota. Inonotus obliquus polysaccharides (IOPs) have potential therapeutic efficacy in alleviating metabolic disorders. However, the mechanism by which IOP prevents obesity via regulating gut microbiota remains elusive. IOP was extracted and structurally characterized by FT-IR and NMR spectroscopy, confirming typical polysaccharide structures. Structurally, IOP is a 5.4 kDa polysaccharide predominantly composed of glucose, galactose, xylose, mannose, galacturonic acid, glucuronic acid, as well as rhamnose, arabinose, and methyl-galactose. Administration of IOP to high-fat diet (HFD)-fed mice effectively curtailed weight gain and improved serum lipid parameters. Furthermore, it mitigated lipid deposition within hepatic and adipose tissues, while successfully countering HFD-triggered liver damage. Notably, IOP induced significant changes in microbial diversity and composition by selectively increasing the abundance of Streptococcaceae while suppressing Faecalibaculum rodentium at the family and species levels. These findings highlight that IOP is a promising functional food ingredient that regulates gut microbiota for obesity prevention. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Food Nutrition)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

16 pages, 1295 KB  
Article
Phloretic Acid Improves Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease in High-Fat Diet-Fed Mice
by Sojeong Park, HwiCheol Kim and Un Ju Jung
Molecules 2026, 31(10), 1681; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules31101681 - 15 May 2026
Viewed by 165
Abstract
Previous studies have demonstrated that phloretic acid (PA), a phenolic compound, exerts beneficial effects on inflammation, oxidative stress, and aging. However, its effects on obesity and associated metabolic abnormalities, including dyslipidemia and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), remain unclear. To evaluate the [...] Read more.
Previous studies have demonstrated that phloretic acid (PA), a phenolic compound, exerts beneficial effects on inflammation, oxidative stress, and aging. However, its effects on obesity and associated metabolic abnormalities, including dyslipidemia and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), remain unclear. To evaluate the effects of PA on these obesity-related metabolic alterations and explore the underlying mechanisms, male C57BL/6J mice were divided into three groups and fed for 10 weeks with a low-fat diet (10 kcal% fat), a high-fat diet (HFD, 60 kcal% fat), or an HFD containing 0.02% (w/w) PA. PA-supplemented mice showed no significant weight loss and fat loss. However, PA supplementation significantly reduced circulating levels of free fatty acid, triglyceride, and non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) while increasing HDL-C levels in HFD-fed mice. It also reduced hepatic lipid deposition and alleviated hepatocellular injury. These effects were accompanied by the coordinated modulation of hepatic lipid metabolism, including reduced lipogenesis and cholesterol esterification, enhanced fatty acid oxidation, and increased bile acid synthesis and excretion. Furthermore, PA attenuated hepatic oxidative stress and suppressed systemic and hepatic inflammation. These observations suggest that PA may counteract HFD-induced MASLD by modulating hepatic lipid metabolism, and that its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects may also contribute to these metabolic improvements. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Photochemistry)
Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 2475 KB  
Article
Chamber-Specific Structural, Fibrotic, and Molecular Remodeling of the Heart in Experimental Metabolic Syndrome
by Óscar J. Arias-Mutis, Alexandra Bizy, Patricia Genovés, Johan E. Ortiz-Guzmán, Antonio Lucía-García, Amparo Ruiz-Saurí, César Ríos-Navarro, Luis Such-Miquel, Antonio Alberola, Francisco J. Chorro, Conrado J. Calvo and Manuel Zarzoso
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(10), 4427; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27104427 - 15 May 2026
Viewed by 138
Abstract
Metabolic syndrome (MetS) drives cardiac remodeling and fibrosis, contributing to diastolic dysfunction and heart failure with preserved ejection fraction, but chamber-specific mechanisms remain poorly defined. New Zealand White rabbits were fed a high-fat/high-sucrose diet for 28 weeks to induce experimental MetS. Systemic phenotype, [...] Read more.
Metabolic syndrome (MetS) drives cardiac remodeling and fibrosis, contributing to diastolic dysfunction and heart failure with preserved ejection fraction, but chamber-specific mechanisms remain poorly defined. New Zealand White rabbits were fed a high-fat/high-sucrose diet for 28 weeks to induce experimental MetS. Systemic phenotype, cardiac structure (echocardiography), myocardial fibrosis (Picrosirius red histology), myosin/collagen gene expression (qRT-PCR), and chamber-specific proteomics were assessed across left/right atria and ventricles. The model reproduced central obesity, glucose intolerance, dyslipidemia, and mild hypertension, with concentric left ventricular hypertrophy and selective ventricular fibrosis, as follows: increased collagen in left ventricle (LV) and right ventricle (RV), unchanged in atria. Ventricular α-myosin heavy-chain gene expression was upregulated, while collagen I and α-smooth muscle actin transcripts showed ventricular-specific downregulation. Proteomics revealed atrial metabolic and cytoskeletal adaptations with minimal extracellular matrix involvement; ventricles displayed early profibrotic cues (galectin-3 in LV), metabolic inefficiency (impaired glycolysis/ATP production in LV; lipid oxidation shift in RV), and diminished provisional matrix support. Conclusions: concentric LV hypertrophy and great vessel enlargement occurred without systolic/diastolic dysfunction; ventricular-selective fibrosis, α-myosin heavy-chain upregulation, type I collagen/α-smooth muscle actin downregulation, and chamber-specific proteomic changes showed atrial adaptation versus ventricular early profibrotic/metabolic inefficiency. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

24 pages, 5972 KB  
Article
Irisin-Driven AMPK-PGC-1α Activation Underlies the Renoprotective Effects of Swimming Exercise in Obesity-Induced Kidney Injury
by Safaa M. Hanafy, Soha S. Zakaria, Mohammad I. Jumaa, Reham A. Al-Dhelaan and Einas M. Yousef
Biomolecules 2026, 16(5), 727; https://doi.org/10.3390/biom16050727 - 15 May 2026
Viewed by 276
Abstract
Background: Obesity often affects kidney health. Irisin, a myokine released during exercise, may exert renoprotective effects. This study examined the effects of swimming-induced irisin on kidney health in obese rats. Materials and methods: Sixty male rats were divided into four groups: control non-trained, [...] Read more.
Background: Obesity often affects kidney health. Irisin, a myokine released during exercise, may exert renoprotective effects. This study examined the effects of swimming-induced irisin on kidney health in obese rats. Materials and methods: Sixty male rats were divided into four groups: control non-trained, obese non-trained, control trained, and obese trained. Obesity was induced using a high-fat diet, and an 8-week swimming program was implemented. Measurements included body and kidney weights, renal function markers (serum urea, creatinine, and urinary albumin), lipid profile, fasting glucose, insulin, and HOMA-IR. Levels of skeletal muscle irisin and PGC-1α were measured by ELISA, and citrate synthase activity was assessed spectrophotometrically. Renal tissue analysis included phospho-AMPKα1 (measured by ELISA), Complex I activity, ATP, Malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity (measured spectrophotometrically), and PGC-1α mRNA expression (qRT-PCR). Renal tissues were examined under a light microscope for histopathological evaluation, followed by semi-quantitative scoring of glomerular and tubulointerstitial lesions, morphometric analysis of glomerular tuft area, and a composite score of cleaved caspase-3 immunoexpression. Results: Exercise increased skeletal muscle levels of irisin, PGC-1α, and citrate synthase activity. It also activated renal AMPK, improved mitochondrial function, increased PGC-1α mRNA levels, and reduced renal oxidative stress, as evidenced by decreased malondialdehyde (MDA) levels and restored superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity in obese rats. These changes were associated with improved renal function, reduced tubular injury and apoptosis in obese rats, partial restoration of the glomerular tuft area, lower lesion scores, and reduced cleaved caspase-3 immunoexpression. Conclusions: These findings suggest that irisin may mediate the renoprotective effects of exercise through the AMPK–PGC-1α pathway, highlighting swimming as a beneficial non-pharmacological intervention and supporting a potential adjunct role for irisin in managing obesity-related CKD. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Medicine)
Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 712 KB  
Article
Marine-Derived Padina Minor Extract Improves Lipid and Glucose Metabolism in Obese Rats: Evidence for PPARγ and ADIPOR1 Modulation
by Anton Bahtiar, Dinda Puspita Dewi Wahyudi, Riani Widiarti and Sirithon Siriamornpun
Nutrients 2026, 18(10), 1572; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu18101572 - 15 May 2026
Viewed by 216
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Obesity is a multifactorial metabolic disorder characterized by excessive adipose accumulation and dysregulated lipid and glucose homeostasis. Marine brown algae contain diverse bioactive compounds with potential metabolic benefits; however, the in vivo anti-obesity effects of Padina minor remain insufficiently characterized. Methods: This [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Obesity is a multifactorial metabolic disorder characterized by excessive adipose accumulation and dysregulated lipid and glucose homeostasis. Marine brown algae contain diverse bioactive compounds with potential metabolic benefits; however, the in vivo anti-obesity effects of Padina minor remain insufficiently characterized. Methods: This study evaluated the effects of P. minor ethanolic extract on adipose metabolism and metabolic parameters in obese rats induced by a high-fat diet (HFD). Male Wistar rats (n = 36) were rendered obese via HFD and treated with P. minor extract (25, 50, or 100 mg/kg BW) for 4 weeks, with orlistat (30 mg/kg BW) serving as a reference control. Body weight, food intake, Lee index, visceral fat mass, serum lipid profile, and glucose levels were assessed, alongside protein expression of PPARγ, CNR1, and ESR1 (ELISA) and gene expression of Pparγ and Adipor1 (qPCR). Phytochemical constituents were analyzed using GC–MS and LC–MS/MS. Results: P. minor extract significantly attenuated body weight gain, adiposity indices, and visceral fat accumulation compared with HFD controls (p < 0.05), and improved metabolic profiles by reducing total cholesterol, triglycerides, and glucose levels while increasing HDL-cholesterol. At the molecular level, treatment was associated with decreased PPARγ and CNR1 expression and increased Adipor1 and ESR1 expression. The highest dose (100 mg/kg BW) produced effects comparable to orlistat. Phytochemical analysis identified flavonoids and phenolic acids, including quercetin, catechin, chlorogenic acid, and p-coumaric acid. Conclusions: Padina minor ethanolic extract improves metabolic parameters and adipose tissue characteristics in HFD-induced obese rats, potentially through modulation of pathways related to adipogenesis and lipid metabolism, supporting its potential as a marine-derived nutraceutical candidate for obesity management; however, further studies are required to confirm its mechanisms and clinical relevance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Phytochemicals and Human Health)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

19 pages, 7527 KB  
Article
Combined Oat β-Glucan and Soy Protein Isolate Reprogram Gut Microbiota and Improve Metabolic Dysfunction in Diet-Induced Obesity
by Zongzhen Guo, Yuge Sun, Yiyun Zhang, Kefan Wei, Jiaqian Cao, Qun Shen and Yong Xue
Nutrients 2026, 18(10), 1571; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu18101571 - 15 May 2026
Viewed by 270
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Although plant-derived dietary fiber and protein are favorable factors for improving host metabolic disorders, it remains unclear whether these two macronutrients exhibit synergistic health benefits. Methods: To address this gap, utilizing oat dietary fiber (GLU) and soybean protein (SBP) as representative bioactive [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Although plant-derived dietary fiber and protein are favorable factors for improving host metabolic disorders, it remains unclear whether these two macronutrients exhibit synergistic health benefits. Methods: To address this gap, utilizing oat dietary fiber (GLU) and soybean protein (SBP) as representative bioactive models, we investigated the effects of 5% GLU, 20% SBP, and their combined supplementation on high-fat diet (HFD)-induced metabolic dysregulation in C57BL/6J mice. Results: Our results demonstrated that the combined GLU + SBP intervention provided comprehensive protection against HFD-induced obesity, significantly attenuating body weight gain (12.29 ± 2.02 g vs. 21.90 ± 2.86 g, p < 0.05) and adiposity (3.34 ± 1.19% vs. 10.77 ± 1.16%, p < 0.05) compared with HFD mice, without altering caloric intake. Crucially, the compound formulation exhibited synergistic superiority over individual components, as evidenced by greater reductions in serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST) activity (113.13 ± 28.50 U/L vs. 158.00 ± 30.25 U/L, p < 0.05) and improved glucose tolerance, with lower OGTT AUC values (999.09 ± 95.83 vs. 1434.66 ± 80.56 mmol/L·min, p < 0.05). Mechanistically, 16S rRNA sequencing revealed a distinct remodeling of the gut microbial community, highlighted by a substantial enrichment of Akkermansia. Functional prediction analysis specifically linked this microbial shift to the modulation of Akkermansia-associated metabolic pathways, which subsequently facilitated the activation of host metabolic networks to combat lipid deposition and systemic metabolic stress. Conclusions: Collectively, the GLU + SBP combination offers synergistic metabolic benefits driven by a distinct gut microbiota signature, supporting a feasible “soluble fiber + plant protein” strategy for developing functional foods targeting metabolic health. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Carbohydrates)
Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 6120 KB  
Article
Nobiletin Protects Endothelial Function in High-Fat Diet-Induced Obese Mice Through Activation of 5′ Adenosine Monophosphate-Activated Protein Kinase
by Qiaowen Deng, Yuehan Wang, Yifan Yang, Lingchao Miao, Chumin Zhong, Manqin Fu and Wai San Cheang
Nutrients 2026, 18(10), 1564; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu18101564 - 14 May 2026
Viewed by 207
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Nobiletin, one of the main components of citrus peel, exhibits potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and metabolic regulatory properties. However, its effect on obesity-associated vasculopathay remains unknown. We aim to investigate the effect of nobiletin in ameliorating oxidative stress and endothelial dysfunction induced [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Nobiletin, one of the main components of citrus peel, exhibits potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and metabolic regulatory properties. However, its effect on obesity-associated vasculopathay remains unknown. We aim to investigate the effect of nobiletin in ameliorating oxidative stress and endothelial dysfunction induced by a high-fat diet (HFD). Methods: Male C57BL/6J mice were fed a HFD (60 kcal% fat) or normal chow for four months and orally administered with vehicle or nobiletin (50 mg/kg/day) for 8 weeks. Vasoreactivity in aortas was measured on a wire myograph. Primary rat aortic endothelial cells (RAECs) were isolated from Sprague-Dawley rats for in vitro study. Protein expressions were detected by Western blot. Superoxide production was determined by fluorescence imaging. Results: Exposure to high glucose increased the phosphorylation of JNK (Tyr185) and decreased the protein expressions of Nrf2 and HO-1, as well as downregulated the phosphorylation of AMPK and eNOS (Ser1177) in RAECs. This led to reduced nitric oxide (NO) generation and elevation of oxidative stress. High glucose induction also impaired the endothelium-dependent relaxations (EDRs) in murine aortas. These high glucose-induced impairments were restored by co-treatment of nobiletin (1 μM or 10 μM) whereas effects of nobiletin were abolished by AMPK inhibitor Compound C. The DIO-induced diabetic animal model showed increased body weight and blood pressure, imbalance of glucolipid metabolism, impaired EDRs, and elevated oxidative stress in aortas. AMPK/eNOS and Nrf2/HO-1 pathways were downregulated in aortas from DIO mice. Oral administration of nobiletin could at least partially reverse the above damage. Conclusions: Nobiletin ameliorates endothelial dysfunction by reducing oxidative stress and enhancing NO bioavailability upon activation of AMPK/eNOS and Nrf2/HO-1 pathways in obese diabetic mice. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Phytonutrients in Diseases of Affluence)
Show Figures

Figure 1

Back to TopTop