Modulatory Role of Moringa Oleifera-Loaded Silver Nanoparticles on UCP1 and PPARGC1A Genes Expression in an Obesity Rat Model

TL;DR

This study shows that Moringa Oleifera-loaded silver nanoparticles can improve obesity-related metabolic issues and gene expression in rats.

Contribution

The study introduces MO-AgNPs as a novel therapeutic approach for obesity by combining Moringa Oleifera and silver nanoparticles.

Findings

MO-AgNPs significantly improved insulin sensitivity and lipid profiles in obese rats.

MO-AgNPs upregulated UCP1 and PPARGC1A genes more effectively than other treatments.

Histological analysis showed liver and pancreatic tissue restoration with MO-AgNPs.

Abstract

Obesity remains a global health crisis, with limited therapeutic options for addressing metabolic dysfunction and inflammation. This study evaluates the therapeutic potential of Moringa Oleifera-loaded silver nanoparticles (MO-AgNPs) in modulating obesity-related biochemical and genetic markers. To optimize the synthesis of MO-AgNPs, Response Surface Methodology (RSM) using Design Expert software was employed to identify the optimal conditions for minimizing particle size, polydispersity index, and maximizing zeta potential. Male albino rats with high-carbohydrate, high-fat diet (HCHFD)-induced obesity were treated with AgNPs, Moringa Oleifera extract, or MO-AgNPs. Key assessments included biochemical markers, lipid profiles, adipokines, and the expression of thermogenic and metabolic genes (UCP1, PPARGC1A), along with histopathological evaluation of liver and pancreatic tissues. Transmission electron microscopy revealed spherical particles with an average size of approximately 40 nm, consistent with dynamic light scattering data. Treatment with MO-AgNPs significantly enhanced insulin sensitivity, improved lipid profiles, and regulated adipokine levels, while upregulating UCP1 and PPARGC1A expression more effectively than other treatments. Histological analysis demonstrated substantial restoration of liver and pancreatic tissue architecture, highlighting the protective effects of MO-AgNPs. Overall, MO-AgNPs represent an innovative therapeutic strategy, combining the bioactive properties of Moringa Oleifera with the enhanced functionality of silver nanoparticles, showing strong potential for addressing obesity and its associated metabolic complications.

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12010-025-05511-x.

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