Anti-obesity effect of Morus bombycis root extract: Anti-lipase activity and lipolytic effect

Aim of the study: This study evaluated anti-obesity effect of the ethanolic extract of Morus bombycis root on lipase activity and lipolysis in adipocytes and adipose tissues. Materials and methods: Lipase (triacylgycerol acylhydrolase, EC 3.1.1.3) activity was determined by measuring the hydrolysis of p-nitrophenyl butyrate to p-nitrophenol at 405 nm. Lipolytic effects were assayed in fully differentiated 3T3-L1 adipocytes and adipose tissues. In vitro, phosphodiesterase (PDE) activity was also measured. Results: Mows bombycis root extract exhibited strong anti-lipase activity, with an IC50 value of 2.07 mu g/mL In differentiated adipocytes and adipose tissues, the extract increased lipolytic effects such as decreased intracellular triglyceride and the release of glycerol. Further, the extract inhibited PDE activity in a dose-dependent manner. Conclusion: The present study suggests that Mows bombycis root extract might be of therapeutic interest with respect to the treatment of obesity. Crown Copyright (C) 2010 Published by Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.