Effect of Green and Red Thai Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) on pancreatic digestive enzymes (alpha-glucosidase and lipase) and acetyl-carboxylase 1 activity: A possible therapeutic target for obesity prevention

Abstract

Regular use of Thai kratom has been linked to reduced blood triglyceride levels and body mass index (BMI) in healthy individuals. We analyzed Green Thai Kratom (GTK) and Red Thai Kratom (RTK) to investigate their effects on pancreatic digestive enzymes. The ethanol extracts of GTK and RTK inhibited lipase activity more strongly than alpha-glucosidase activity, suggesting the presence of lipase inhibitors. Mitragynine, the major compound in GTK, showed potent lipase inhibition and moderate alpha-glucosidase inhibition. Quercetin, found in both extracts, strongly inhibited alpha-glucosidase but had limited effects on lipase. These findings suggest that mitragynine and quercetin may hinder triglyceride and starch digestion. Combination inhibition studies revealed synergistic effects between mitragynine and quercetin on alpha-glucosidase activity. Additionally, both GTK and RTK extracts reduced fat accumulation in 3T3-L1 adipocyte cells, with quercetin specifically inhibiting Acetyl-CoA carboxylase 1 (ACC1), a key enzyme in fatty acid biosynthesis. Thus, GTK and RTK extracts, particularly mitragynine and quercetin, exhibit potential anti-obesity effects. We report the novel finding that Thai kratom inhibits de novo fatty acid synthesis by targeting ACC1, resulting in decreased fat accumulation in adipocytes. Regular use of Thai kratom in specific populations may improve blood triglyceride levels and reduce BMI by inhibiting lipase, alpha-glucosidase, and ACC1 activity. Further clinical trials are needed to determine optimal dosage, duration, toxicity levels, and potential side effects of Kratom use.