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Characterization of Bioactive Compounds in Elaeagnus conferta Leaf Extract Using UPLC‐Q‐TOF‐MS and Evaluation of Its Anti‐Obesity Effects

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: ABSTRACT 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.

Source: Food Science & Nutrition

DOI: 10.1002/fsn3.70226