Title:Astaxanthin Attenuates Adiponectin, Calprotectin, miRNA222 and
miRNA378 in Obesity induced by High-Fat Diet in Rats
Volume: 23
Issue: 4
Author(s): Sylvia A. Boshra*
Affiliation:
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, October 6 University, Giza, Egypt
Keywords:
Adiponectin, astaxanthin, calprotectin, miRNA222, miRNA378, obesity.
Abstract: Background: Astaxanthin suppressed obesity in rats fed with high-fat diet (HFD) via
the restriction of adipose tissue build-out, therefore, improving insulin sensitivity and
inflammation. Metformin reduces insulin resistance and may reduce weight.
Aim: Investigation of the effects of astaxanthin and metformin in obesity prompted by a high-fat
diet.
Objective: The present article investigates the effects of astaxanthin and metformin in obesity
prompted by a high-fat diet in rats through measuring miRNA222 and 378.
Materials: The rats were classified into four classes containing ten albino rats each: Group I
(Normal group): nourished with ordinary diet for 8weeks. Group II (Control positive): nourished
with a high-fat diet for 8 weeks. Group III: nourished with astaxanthin (50mg/kg)(1/40 LD50)
orally plus a high-fat diet for 8weeks. Group IV: nourished with metformin (500mg/kg) orally
plus a high-fat diet for 8 weeks.
Methods: Leptin, adiponectin, calprotectin and interleukin 6 (IL-6) were assessed by rat-specific
ELISA kits. Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), miRNA222 and miRNA378 expressions were
quantified by quantitative real-time PCR.
Results: Astaxanthin and metformin have anti-obesity and antioxidant actions and significantly
decreased the weight of the body, glucose, insulin, triglycerides, total cholesterol, triglycerides
and leptin, as well as plasma calprotectin & IL-6 and increased HDL-C and adiponectin. The liver
TNF-α gene expression, adipose tissue miRNA222 and miRNA378 expression were decreased
compared to HFD control rats.
Discussion and conclusion: Astaxanthin has regulated the aberrant expression of miRNA222
and 378 that may be related to hyperlipidemia and insulin resistance. Accordingly, astaxanthin
deserves a clinical trial in the future due to its effects on miRNAs involved in obesity.