Clinically Effective Molecules of Natural Origin for Obesity Prevention or Treatment

Abstract

The prevalence and incidence of obesity and the comorbidities linked to it are increasing worldwide. Current therapies for obesity and associated pathologies have proven to cause a broad number of adverse effects, and often, they are overpriced or not affordable for all patients. Among the alternatives currently available, natural bioactive compounds stand out. These are frequently contained in pharmaceutical presentations, nutraceutical products, supplements, or functional foods. The clinical evidence for these molecules is increasingly solid, among which epigallocatechin-3-gallate, ellagic acid, resveratrol, berberine, anthocyanins, probiotics, carotenoids, curcumin, silymarin, hydroxy citric acid, and α-lipoic acid stand out. The molecular mechanisms and signaling pathways of these molecules have been shown to interact with the endocrine, nervous, and gastroenteric systems. They can regulate the expression of multiple genes and proteins involved in starvation–satiety processes, activate the brown adipose tissue, decrease lipogenesis and inflammation, increase lipolysis, and improve insulin sensitivity. This review provides a comprehensive view of nature-based therapeutic options to address the increasing prevalence of obesity. It offers a valuable perspective for future research and subsequent clinical practice, addressing everything from the molecular, genetic, and physiological bases to the clinical study of bioactive compounds.

Bioactive Compounds from Pigmented Corn (Zea mays L.) and Their Effect on Health

“…After activation, the endothelium begins to express cell adhesion molecules on its surface (ICAM-1, intercellular adhesion molecule-1 and VCAM-1, vascular cell adhesion molecule-1) to recruit circulating monocytes to the site of oxidized LDL (oxLDL) accumulation. Anthocyanins downregulate the expression of these adhesion molecules [ 50 ]. On the luminal side, anthocyanins decrease chemokines (CK), which also results in decreased myeloid cell recruitment.…”

“…Anthocyanins are also involved in the regulation of the inflammatory status and activation of endogenous antioxidant defenses, as well as in the regulation of the immune system through MAPK-, NF-κB- and JAK-STAT-related signaling pathways [ 50 ]. The effects of anthocyanins on inflammatory markers are promising and may have the potential to exert anti-inflammatory biological action in vitro and in vivo.…”