This study aimed to characterize the bioactive compounds in Elaeagnus conferta Roxb. leaf extract using UPLC-QTOF-
MS
and subsequently assess its anti-obesity
effects in a murine model. The methanolic extract of Elaeagnus conferta leaves was
analyzed, identifying 13 bioactive compounds, including flavones (rutin, kaempferol 3-neohesperidoside,
and spinacetin
3-gentiobioside)
and phenolic acids (caffeic acid 3-O-
glucuronide
and 1-O-
feruloylglucose),
known for their potential anti-obesity
properties. In the in vivo study, male C57BL/6J mice were fed a high-fat
diet (HFD) and supplemented with E. conferta
extract at doses of 150 mg/kg/day and 300 mg/kg/day for 8 weeks. The administration of E. conferta leaf extract significantly
reduced body weight gain in a dose-dependent
manner, with the highest reduction observed at 300 mg/kg/day. The extract also
lowered low-density
lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c)
and total cholesterol (TC) while increasing brown adipose tissue (BAT)
formation. Histological analysis revealed a reduction in adipocyte size and lipid accumulation in liver tissues and white adipose
tissues, indicating improved fat metabolism. Moreover, E. conferta extract supplementation led to a significant decrease
in intra-abdominal
and epididymal white adipose tissue weights compared to the HFD group. These findings suggest that
E. conferta leaf extract exerts anti-obesity
effects by modulating lipid metabolism and adipose tissue distribution. This study
provides a scientific basis for the potential application of E. conferta as a functional food ingredient for obesity management.