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

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.