An excessive buildup of body fat is a sign of the metabolic disease known
as obesity. The primary etiological factor for obesity is thought to be an imbalance
between energy intake and expenditure, where genetic factors can also play a
significant role. The rise in obesity rates over the past few years has encouraged a focus
on adipose tissue biology and the precise processes behind adipocyte differentiation
and adipogenesis. Due to the advent of several in vitro cell models and molecular
biology tools, adipocyte commitment and differentiation have become complicated
processes that may be studied to gain a better knowledge of adipogenesis and adipocyte
malfunction related to obesity. As the available anti-obesity drugs and surgical
interventions cause adverse effects, it is important to rely on natural-based therapeutics
in order to manage obesity and its associated complications. Seaweeds are a rich source
of natural bioactive compounds that exhibit human beneficial effects. Fucoxanthin,
phlorotannins, fucoidan, and alginate are some of the bioactive compounds present in
seaweeds exhibiting anti-obesity potential mainly via the inhibition of digestive
enzymes and adipocyte differentiation. Therefore, this chapter mainly focuses on the
anti-obesity potential of seaweeds proved by many animal and human cell culture
models using in vitro and in vivo mechanisms.
Keywords: Adipocyte differentiation, Adipose tissues, Anti-obesity potential, Bioactive constituents, Cell culture, Chlorophyta, In vitro, In vivo studies, Marine algae, Metabolic disorders, Natural products, Phaeophyta, Polyphenols, Polysaccharides, Primary metabolites, Rhodophyta, Secondary metabolites, Seaweeds.
