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This protocol describes the state of knowledge on the safety of hydroxycitric acid and plant preparations containing hydroxycitric acid at the time of drafting the protocol and before the full assessment is carried out, outlines the assessment questions and sub‐questions, specifies the evidence needs, and provides a detailed plan for the assessment. It is applied to the first three risk assessment steps: hazard identification, hazard characterisation and exposure assessment. Risk characterisation will be performed based on the outcome of hazard characterisation and exposure assessment. The protocol is based on a narrative review of the evidence and on expert knowledge. It aims to inform the systematic searches that will form the basis for the assessment [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Weeds pose major constraints in crop production. The use of allelochemicals and allelopathic species can provide an effective alternative for sustainable weed management. In a previous study that evaluated the allelopathic activity of wild and cultivated plants in Turkey, Hibiscus sabdariffa demonstrated the strongest inhibitory potential. This study aimed to estimate the phytotoxic influence of the H. sabdariffa water crude extracts on Lactuca sativa L. in a bioassay experiment. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis was used to identify two major compounds, hydroxycitric acid lactone and hydroxy citric acid, and their plant growth inhibitory activities were evaluated by bioassays. Hydroxycitric acid lactone had a stronger growth inhibitory activity on L. sativa L. and was estimated as a major allelochemical in H. sabdariffa calyx. The high concentration (16.7% of the dry weight of the calyx) and strong inhibitory effect (EC50, 73.7 ppm) of the hydroxycitric acid lactone could demonstrate the growth inhibitory activity of the H. sabdariffa calyx extract. This study showed that hydroxycitric acid lactone, a major compound in the calyx of Hibiscus sabdariffa, is a plant growth inhibitor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Our objective was to improve the results of extracorporeal shock waves lithotripsy using hydroxycitric acid (HCA) like adjuvant therapy. Double blind randomized clinical trial using hydroxycitric acid versus placebo (ID NCT05525130). Multicenter study of adjuvant exposure to a food supplement with hydroxycitric acid (HCA), vs. placebo in patients with calcium oxalate and calcium phosphate lithiasis with indication for extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL). 81 patients were included in the study to compare the effect of HCA versus placebo. Stone fragmentation, the main efficacy variable. Other variables analyzed were stone size, Hounsfield Unit Stone and tolerability. Statistical study with SPSS, statistical significance p ≤ 0.05. Eighty-one patients were included, 40 in the intervention group with HCA and 41 in the control group with placebo. The average stone area was 174,36 mm2 (SD: 32,83 mm2) and the average hardness was 1128,11 (SD: 257,65), with no statistically significant differences between groups. Significant statistical differences were obtained in the analysis of the population by intention to treat and by protocol of the main variable, no fragmentation vs. fragmentation where 100% of the patients, who were given ESWL and took HCA, presented fragmentation while 17% of the patients with placebo did not reach fragmentation (p = 0.03). The adjuvant use of HCA in patients for whom ESWL has been indicated, facilitates stone fragmentation in all cases, which is not achieved in up to 17% of the patients who did not use HCA. We recommend the use of HCA in patients prior to shock wave treatment to improve their fragmentation in calcium stones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Garcinia cambogia is widely used as a weight-loss supplement, and it is reported to be negatively associated with metabolic diseases including insulin resistance (IR), type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), and dyslipidemia. Objective: This study aimed to investigate the effect of G. cambogia water extract (GE) on high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obesity, IR, and hepatic lipid accumulation. Design: C57BL/6 male mice were fed HFD with or without GE, GED and GEP for 16 weeks, and the mice were subjected to insulin tolerance tests and liver histological analysis. The hydroxycitric acid (HCA) levels of GE, GED, and GEP were measured by high-performance liquid chromatography. Results: The results showed that GE significantly reduced HFD-induced body weight gain (P < 0.001), alleviated IR (P < 0.01), reduced serum total cholesterol (TC) (P < 0.001), and attenuated HFD-induced hepatic lipid accumulation. To investigate the constituent that was responsible for these effects, we separated GE into the component that dissolved in ethanol (GED) and the component that was precipitated by ethanol (GEP). Further mouse experiments showed that both GED and GEP were effective, but GED (which was used at a dose of 4 g/L) was more effective than GEP (which was used at a lower dose of 1 g/L). The HCA levels in GED and GEP were similar, although less than in GE. HCA may be the effective component in GE. Conclusion: This study provides evidence that G. cambogia can be used as a natural supplement to alleviate IR and hepatic lipid accumulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Garcinia gummigutta, also known as Garcinia cambogia, has been shown to have excellent properties beneficial against many health conditions. The use of Garcinia cambogia in traditional medicine has involved treating gastrointestinal ailments, intestinal parasites, rheumatism, digestive disturbances, among other ethnobotanical applications. The fruit, which resembles a pumpkin in appearance, is presently most often used and heavily promoted as a supplement for weight loss. According to studies, hydroxycitric acid (HCA), the main organic acid present in the fruit rind, has antiobesity properties that include lowering appetite and reducing body fat gain by regulating serotonin levels linked to satiety, increasing fat oxidation, and reducing de novo lipogenesis. HCA is a strong inhibitor of the enzyme adenosine triphosphate citrate lyase, which converts citrate to acetyl-coenzyme A, a catalyst for the synthesis of fatty acids, cholesterol, and triglycerides. In in vitro and in vivo models, the plant's crude extract or components also have hepatoprotective, anti-cholinesterase, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and anti-inflammatory effects. Studies on the phytochemistry of several plant components found that organic acids and xanthones, such as carbogiol and benzophenones, were also present. There are already several G. cambogia/HCA dietary supplements available for weight loss, however there are some safety concerns about the potential toxicity of continuous usage of these supplements. The majority of complaints have been in connection with multi-component formulations. G. cambogia has not been positively identified as a possibly harmful aggressor. In this paper, the scientific properties of G. cambogia are discussed in relation to pertinent botanical features, ethnobotanical applications, phytochemistry, biological activity, and toxicity. The study could be very helpful in emphasizing the therapeutic properties and mechanism of this plant and its applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Garcinia cambogia extract (GCE) is a popular botanical supplement used in weight loss products. Hydroxycitric acid (HCA) is the principal component in GCE. Due to lack of adequate toxicity data to assess the safe use of GCE, the National Toxicology Program is testing GCE in Hsd:Sprague Dawley SD rats following perinatal exposure and in adult B6C3F1/N mice. We report a validated method utilizing sample clean up with ultrafiltration followed by liquid chromatography—tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) analysis to quantify HCA in rat plasma across the concentration range from 20 to 800 ng/mL. The method was linear (r2 ≥ 0.99) with limits of quantitation (LOQ) and detection (LOD) equal to 20.0 and 3.9 ng/mL plasma, respectively. The accuracy (determined as the relative error, RE) and precision (determined as the relative standard deviation, RSD) using quality control standards analyzed over multiple days were ≤ ± 7.5% and ≤9.5%, respectively. The method was applied to quantify HCA in study matrices (relative error ≤ ± 23.0%; relative standard deviation ≤ 6.0) except gestational day (GD)18 fetus. The method was partially validated in GD18 fetal homogenate across the concentration range from 60 to 3000 ng/g (r2 ≥ 0.99, relative error ≤ ± 11.9%, and relative standard deviation ≤ 5.5%; LOQ 60.0 ng/g; LOD 7.77 ng/g). Standards as high as 20,000 ng/mL (plasma) and 502,000 ng/g (fetus) were successfully quantified after dilution into the validated range (relative error ≤ ± 2.6%; relative standard deviation ≤ 5.2%). These results demonstrate that the method is suitable to quantify HCA in rodent matrices and may be adapted to other biological matrices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Obesity is associated with metabolic diseases, including insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes and dyslipidemia. Antiobesity drugs are available but have side effects. Hydroxy citric acid (HCA) with ATP-citrate lyase enzyme-inhibiting activity has been identified as a safe potential supplement for weight management and as an antiobesity agent. In the present study, we aim to test the antiobesity potential of the fruit rind powder of G. indica (a plant rich in HCA) in genetically obese rats. Forty-five-day-old Male WNIN/GR-Ob rats were divided equally into four groups with each group having six rats. Group 1 was fed with a standard powder diet (SPD), whereas Groups 2, 3, and 4 were fed with SPD containing 1%, 3%, and 5%, respectively, of G. indica powder for 12 weeks. Food intake, body composition, oral glucose tolerance test, plasma insulin, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), lipid profile, hepatic glycogen, ATP-citrate lyase, and Glucose-6-Phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PDH) were measured. Histological analysis of vital organs and Immunohistochemistry (IHC) analysis was carried out in liver sections for citrate lyase score. G. indica significantly decreased food intake, body weight, body fat %, hepatic and circulating triglycerides, cholesterol, and liver steatosis. In addition, G6PDH and ATP-citrate lyase enzyme activities were decreased along with an increase in liver glycogen. The IHC scores of citrate lyase were lower in treated groups. The results indicate that G. indica exerts favorable effects on obesity with a possible mechanism of anorectic effects, suppressed citrate lyase enzyme activity, and improved insulin sensitivity due to the modulation of carbohydrate metabolism by the phytochemicals and secondary metabolites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An attempt was made to simultaneously partitioning Anthocyanins (ACN), Hydroxycitric acid (HCA), Garcinol (GL), and Isogarcinol (IGL) from fruit rinds of Garcinia indica using the 1-propanol and magnesium sulfate system. The influences of 1-propanol and magnesium sulfate concentration and Tie line Length (TLL) were investigated to obtain the optimal partitioning and recovery of GL and IGL into the top-phase and ACN and HCA to the bottom phase. The 25% w/w 1-propanol and 12% w/w magnesium sulfate system showed the maximum extraction efficiency for all the compounds. The purity and recovery were further improved by employing the second stage ATPS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Following a request from the European Commission, the EFSA Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed (FEEDAP) was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the safety and efficacy of dried extract from Garcinia gummi-gutta (L.) Roxb. (Garcinia extract) when used as a sensory additive in feed for cats and dogs. Garcinia extract is specified to contain at least 60% hydroxycitric acid. Since about 25% of the composition of the extract remained uncharacterised and in the absence of complete toxicological data, the FEEDAP Panel was unable to conclude on the safety for cats and dogs. In the absence of adequate data, no conclusions can be on the safety for the user. In the absence of evidence that the extract acts as a flavour in animal feed or has an effect on palatability, the FEEDAP Panel was unable to conclude on the efficacy of the additive. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Garcinia cambogia extract (GCE)/(−) – hydroxycitric acid (HCA) has been identified as a potential antiobesity agent. However, controversial clinical trial results have been published on its biological effect and poor pharmacokinetic (PK) information increases its dubious efficacy. The aim of this study was to determine the main PK parameters of GCE/HCA in healthy women, and to evaluate food effects on HCA absorption. Healthy women ages 21–41 years with body mass index (BMI; kg/m2) 20.29–25.82 participated in a phase I, open-label, randomized, single-dose, cross-over study. In the fasted- and fed-conditions subjects received 1500/750 mg of GCE/HCA under 8 h of fasting. In the fed-period was given a high calorie breakfast (~600 calories) after dosing. Plasma HCA concentrations were substantially reduced in fed-state. Peak plasma concentration (C max) and area under the curve of time-concentration (AUC 0–10h) were 3-fold and 2-fold lower (p < 0.001, 0.01) in fed-condition, respectively. Higher volume of distribution (Vd/F) and clearance (Cl/F) were achieved in fed state, probably due to the lower fraction (F) of HCA absorbed induced by food effect. Large inter-individual variations were observed for the main pharmacokinetics parameters in both periods. These findings suggest that HCA might suffer an active absorption uptake and intense adsorption on food. • Extended time to reach peak plasma HCA concentration. • Substantial food-effect on HCA absorption. • High inter-individual variation of plasma HCA concentration. • Suggestive active uptake and adsorption of HCA on food. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Hibiscus sabdariffa L. is commonly used as an ingredient for herbal teas and food supplements. Several studies demonstrated the beneficial effects of Hibiscus sabdariffa L. extracts (HSE); however, the bioactive components and their mode of action still remain unclear. Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) was used to study health-related effects and the underlying molecular mechanisms of HSE in this model organism as well as effects of hydroxycitric acid (HCA), a main compound of HSE, and its structural analogue isocitric acid (ICA). Methods: Survival and locomotion were detected by touch-provoked movement. Thermotolerance was analysed using the nucleic acid stain SYTOX green, and intracellular ROS accumulation was measured via oxidation of H2DCF. Localisation of the transcription factors DAF-16 and SKN-1 was analysed in transgenic strains (DAF-16::GFP, SKN-1::GFP). The involvement of DAF-16 and SKN-1 was further investigated using loss-of-function strains as well as gene silencing by feeding RNAi-inducing bacteria. Protection against amyloid-β toxicity was analysed using a transgenic strain with an inducible expression of human amyloid-β peptides in body wall muscle cells (paralysis assay). Results: HSE treatment resulted in a prominent extension of lifespan (up to 24%) and a reduction of the age-dependent decline in locomotion. HCA, a main compound of HSE increased lifespan too, but to a lesser extent (6%) while ICA was not effective. HSE and HCA did not modulate resistance against thermal stress conditions and did not exert antioxidative effects: HSE rather increased intracellular ROS levels, suggesting a pro-oxidative effect of the extract in vivo. HSE and HCA increased the nuclear localisation of the pivotal transcription factors DAF-16 and SKN-1 indicating an activation of these factors. Consistent with this result, lifespan prolongation by HSE was dependent on both transcription factors. In addition to the positive effect on lifespan, HSE treatment also elicited a (strong) protection against amyloid-ß induced toxicity in C. elegans in a DAF-16- and SKN-1-dependent manner. Conclusion: Our results demonstrate that HSE increases lifespan and protects against amyloid-β toxicity in the model organism C. elegans. These effects were mediated, at least in parts via modulation of pathways leading to activation/nuclear localisation of DAF-16 and SKN-1. Since HCA, a main component of HSE causes only minor effects, additional bioactive compounds like flavonoids or anthocyanins as well as synergistic effects of these compounds should be investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the current study, we have reported a novel approach for synthesizing zinc oxide Nanoparticles (ZnO Nps) from (−)‐Hydroxy Citric Acid [(−)‐HCA] extracted from the dried rinds of the fruit Garcinia gummi‐gutta. The prepared nanoparticles were characterized by UV‐Vis spectroscopy (UV‐Vis), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Energy dispersive X‐ray analysis (EDAX) and High‐resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR‐TEM). Hydroxy citric acid (HCA) was used as a template to synthesize the ZnO Nps. The presence of (−)‐HCA was confirmed by High‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Spherical clusters built of nanoparticle aggregates with the desired composition of ZnO were confirmed from the SEM‐EDAX and HRTEM analysis. The synthesized ZnO Nps showed a positive response for antibacterial, antifungal, antioxidant and cytotoxicity activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Among plant supplements, which once included in a food regimen, induce a favorable evolution in persons seeking to lose some weight, Garcinia cambogia fruit containing hydroxycitric acid deserves close attention. The aim of this study consisted in the investigation of a biological effect of hydroxycitric acid within a Garcinia cambogia extract on the nutrient metabolism. The study involved the use of a Garcinia cambogia extract comprising hyroxycitric acid in the amount of 60.23%. In view of simulating the conditions of digestion, model dietary media consisting of extrusion products added with a Garcinia cambogia extract and enzymes were developed. The simulation of digestion processes in experimental model media has shown the decrease of glucose formation. Possibly hydroxycitric acid inactivates the activity of amylases, what results in the decline in the content of free monosaccharides and in the reduction of synthesis of glycerol as a fat component with the effect of an inhibited triglyceride formation. The addition of an extrusion product comprising the Garcinia cambogia extract to the diet of laboratory animals (rats) after 28 days of the experiment resulted in a reliable reduction of blood total cholesterol and triglycerides by 13% and 28%, respectively, and also in the decrease of body weight of animals by 5.8%. The investigation confirms the data available in the literature on the properties of hydroxycitric acid within a Garcinia cambogia extract, which influences the nutrient metabolism, thereby allows using brindleberry processing products for the correction of body weight. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate the effect of (‐)‐hydroxycitric acid ((‐)‐HCA) on lipid and glucose metabolism, and further analyzed these actions whether associated with modulation of aldehyde dehydrogenase 3 family member A2 (ALDH3A2) expression in chicken embryos. Results showed that (‐)‐HCA decreased triglyceride content and lipid droplet counts, while these effects induced by (‐)‐HCA were reversed in chicken embryos pre‐transfected with sh4‐ALDH3A2. (‐)‐HCA decreased malic enzyme, acetyl‐CoA carboxylase, fatty acid synthase, and sterol regulatory element binding protein‐1c mRNA level, while increased carnitine palmitoyl transferase 1A (CPT1A) and peroxisome proliferators‐activated receptor α (PPARα) mRNA level; and the action of (‐)‐HCA on lipid metabolism factors had completely eliminated in embryos pre‐transfected with sh4‐ALDH3A2. Chicken embryos pre‐transfected with sh4‐ALDH3A2 had eliminated the increasing of serum glucose and hepatic glycogen content induced by (‐)‐HCA. (‐)‐HCA decreased phosphofructokinase‐1 and increased G6P, fructose‐1,6‐bisphosphatase, phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK), and pyruvate carboxylase mRNA level in chicken embryos. Similarly, the effect of (‐)‐HCA on these key enzyme mRNA level was reversed in embryos pre‐transfected with sh4‐ALDH3A2. Furthermore, (‐)‐HCA increased PPAR‐γ‐coactivator‐1α (PGC‐1α), PPARα, hepatic nuclear factor‐4A, PEPCK, and CPT1A protein level, and these actions of (‐)‐HCA disappeared in embryos pre‐transfected with sh4‐ALDH3A2. These results indicated that (‐)‐HCA reduced fat accumulation and accelerated gluconeogenesis via activation of PGC‐1α signaling pathway, and these effects of (‐)‐HCA might associate with the increasing of ALDH3A2 expression level in chicken embryos. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

NiFe2O4 and NiFe2O4-SiO2 nanoparticles were synthesized by a sol-gel method using citric acid as fuel, giving rise its combustion to the crystallization of the spinel phase. Different synthesis conditions were analyzed with the aim of obtaining stoichiometric NiFe2O4 nanoparticles. The spinel structure in the calcined nanoparticles (400 °C, 2 h) was evaluated by x-ray diffraction. Their nanometer size (mean diameters around 10-15 nm) was confirmed through electron microscopy (field emission scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy). Rietveld refinement indicates the existence of a small percentage of NiO and Fe3O4 phases and a certain degree of structural disorder. The main effect of the silica coating is to enhance the disorder effects and prevent the crystalline growth after post-annealing treatments. Due to the small particle size, the nanoparticles display characteristic superparamagnetic behaviour and surface effects associated to a spin-glass like state: i.e., reduction in the saturation magnetization values and splitting of the zero field cooled (ZFC)-field cooled (FC) high field magnetization curves. The fitting of the field dependence of the ZFC-FC irreversibility temperatures to the Almeida-Thouless equation confirms the spin-glass nature of the detected magnetic phenomena. Exchange bias effects (shifts in the FC hysteresis loops) detected below the estimated freezing temperature support the spin-glass nature of the spin disorder effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Garcinia indica fruits contain several important bioactive compounds like anthocyanin, garcinol, isogarcinol and hydroxycitric acid. Simultaneous extraction of these bioactive compounds from the dried G. indica fruit by employing water, acidified water and an aqueous mixture of ethanol and propanol as solvents and subsequent enrichment using Aqueous Two-Phase Systems (ATPS) were studied. Aqueous 1-propanol (60% (v/v)) and aqueous ethanol (80% (v/v)) were found to be a superior solvent to extract anthocyanin, garcinol, isogarcinol and HCA compared to acidified water and water alone as solvent. The crude extract was further subjected to the PEG-salt and alcohol-salt based Aqueous Two-Phase Extraction (ATPE) for the simultaneous enrichment of garcinol, isogarcinol into top phase and anthocyanins and hydroxycitric acid towards the bottom phase. The ATPS containing ethanol and ammonium sulfate system with TLL of 38.60-43.28% was found suitable to enrich 86.33% of anthocyanins and 75.17% of HCA in salt-rich bottom phase and 96.39% of garcinol and 94.26% of isogarcinol in ethanol-rich top phase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Garcinia cambogia is a Southeast Asian fruit becoming increasingly popular as a weight management supplement. Hydroxycitric acid (HCA) is the primary active ingredient which demonstrates serotonergic- and muscarinic-enhancing properties via inhibition of selective serotonin reuptake and acetylcholinesterase. We report a young adult female with no history of bipolar disorder who developed mania and psychosis approximately 1 week following initiation of G cambogia and the Cleanse and Detox™ dietary supplement manufactured by Apex Vitality Health. She presented with a predominantly expansive mood, psychomotor agitation, disorganized and pressured speech, flight of ideas, grandiosity, delusions, and auditory hallucinations. Following discontinuation of G cambogia and the initiation of lithium and quetiapine, the patient experienced rapid and progressive mood stabilization and was discharged after 8 days. Seven previous case reports associating (hypo)mania and/or psychosis with G cambogia consumption have been published. The chronology of mania and/or psychosis onset may appear between 1 and 8 weeks following initiation of G cambogia. Psychiatric symptoms have resolved with G cambogia discontinuation in some instances and may not require chronic pharmacotherapy. Our report should encourage further research and case reports regarding this adverse event and the reconciliation of complete herbal supplement use at clinic visits and hospital admissions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Pharmacological properties of (-)-hydroxycitric acid (HCA) derived from plants are extensively investigated for preventing lipid storage and controlling appetite. The Garcinia species is most sought out species to recover (-)-HCA. Objectives: Organic acids from dried leaves of Garcinia cambogia, Garcinia indica, Garcinia xanthochymus, and Garcinia morella were extracted and analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography. Materials and Methods: Oven-dried leaves of the four plant samples were subjected to Soxhlet water extraction and further acid extraction. After evaporation, the residue was mixed with 50 ml, 30% orthophosphoric acid. 20 μL of the sample was injected to a reversed-phase C 18 column under gradient elution solvent containing 0.2 M sodium sulfate with a pH of 2.5 adjusted with dilute H2SO4. At a flow rate of 0.5 mL/min, reading was taken using ultraviolet detection at 215 nm. Chromatograms of (-)-HCA, lactone, and citric acid were obtained for standards and the samples. Results: The amount of (-)-HCA, lactone, and citric acid in the dry leaves of G. cambogia was estimated at 7.95%w/w, 3.25%w/w, and 0.13%w/w, respectively. In G. indica, the components were estimated at 5.71%w/w, 3.21%w/w, and 0.07%w/w, respectively. In the dry leaves of G. xanthochymus, it was estimated at 0.02%w/w, 0.06%w/w, and 0.18%w/w. In G. morella, it was estimated at 0.0%w/w, 0.01%w/w, and 0.29%w/w. G. cambogia and G. indica have high amounts of (-)-HCA and lactone in samples of dried leaves. (-)-HCA and lactone are absent in G. morella. Higher amounts of citric acid were found in the leaves of G. morella. Abbreviations Used: HCA: Hydroxycitric acid; HPLC: High-performance liquid chromatography. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to verify the information available on Garcínia Cambogia, relating its properties, mechanism of action, toxicity, recommended doses and data to prove its action as appetite suppressant and weight loss in obesity. A review of the literature was made through bibliographic searches in online databases, using the following descriptors and their correspondents in English: "Herbal medicine in obesity", "Garcinia cambogia", "Garcinia cambogia and obesity", "hydroxycitric acid". Then, 47 papers published in journals for the composition of this work were selected. Garcinia cambogia is a fruit with characteristic sweet and sour taste, presents organic acids like benzophenones, xanthones and its active principle hydroxycitric acid (HCA) is related to some of its effects found. The results showed that the cambranium garcinia was positive in the treatment of obesity, showing effects on appetite suppression also acting on weight loss, and on improving some biochemical parameters. However, more studies are needed to affirm the safety of your results and prove their benefits in the long run. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Increase in obesity incidence has become serious threat to civilized human population. Traditional Indian System of Medicines may have many potential leads in managing obesity. (-)-Hydroxycitric acid (HCA), a unique compound which is present in Garcinia species, has been safely used for centuries in Southeastern Asia for various purposes. Objective: To determine the effect of HCA treatment on peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) and their target genes. Materials and Methods: Effect of the calcium salt of HCA on adipogenic transcription factors PPARs and their target genes (lipoprotein lipase, fatty acid synthase, fatty acid binding protein, glucose transporter 4, and adiponectin) during adipogenesis in 3T3-L1 was investigated. The extent of adipogenesis was checked by measuring the lipid accumulation and glucose uptake in the presence and absence of HCA. Results: HCA treatment modulated the differentiation of adipocytes in a dose-dependent manner, wherein lower concentrations showed increased accumulation of lipid depots. HCA treatment increased PPARγ and its target genes during adipocyte differentiation, which emphasize the role of HCA in adipocity and obesity. Moreover, the binding conformations of HCA and PPARα and PPARγ were predicted using flexible docking and confirmed with known agonists, which also confirms the bioactivity. Conclusion: HCA decreases circulating lipids through raised levels of adipogenic-specific genes activated by the PPARs, thereby augmenting adiposity and related complications. Abbreviations Used: HCA: Hydroxycitric Acid, PPARs: Peroxisome proliferator activated receptors, GLUT: Glucose transporter, ORO: Oil red O, MDI: Methylxanthine dexamethasone insulin, LPL: Lipoprotein lipase, FAS: Fatty acid synthase, FABP: Fatty acid binding protein, LBD: Ligand binding domain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pure crystalline Li2MnP2O7/C composite was prepared by spray pyrolysis (SP) followed by annealing (AN) process. Citric acid (CA) was added into the precursor solution as a carbon source to enhance the electrochemical property. The physical and electrochemical properties in conjunction with various synthesis conditions were evaluated. Variation of carbon content, specific surface area, lattice cell volume, and anti-site concentration was revealed along with different preparation conditions of the SP followed by AN process. Electrochemical properties were relevant to various physical properties of samples, and it provided a critical factor to find the most efficient synthesis condition in the SP method. Since incorporated carbon has a significant role in enhancing the electrical conductivity as well as inducing a delicate variation of physical properties, the limitation of incorporated carbon by CA was addressed with associated reaction mechanism. For the sake of exceeding these limitations, further carbon modification with acetylene black was carried out by ball milling (BM) process. The optimal condition of BM process was designated by the resulting of electrochemical property and observing the carbon distribution on the cross section of particles. Li2MnP2O7/C composite prepared under the whole optimal condition delivered the initial discharge capacity of 64 mAh g−1 at a current rate of C/10. The potential of Mn3+/Mn2+ redox couple revealed at 4.3 V versus Li/Li+ upon the discharge process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the use of Garcinia cambogia, a tree native of India Nepal, and Sri Lanka, in weight loss. Several clinical studies showed that hydroxycitric acid (HCA) from Garcinia cambogia fruits can be an active ingredient for weight loss. Other studies examined the role of HCA synthesis and lipogenesis in suppressing food intake in humans and the effect of Garcinia cambogia on energy expenditure and body mass index (BMI).

Garcinia plant is extensively used in herbal medicine and as food in the tropif:al rain forest region. The present study determined chemical composition of dried Garcinia cambogia fruits, hydroxyl citric acid. The antioxidant activity of their hot and cold (10%) Garcinia cambogia extracts was determined by using 1, 1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH). The study also, investigated the effects of Garcinia cambogia extract (10%) hot and cold on some blood parameters of experimental rats to show their effects on health. The biological experiments consisted of 18 male rats, divided into 3 groups (control, hot and cold 10% Garcinia cambogia extracts). The effects of extracts on liver and kidney functions as well as lipid profile of blood were estimated. Garcinia cambogia (10%) extracts (2ml w/v) were given twice daily by using stomach tube. Chemical composition of dried Garcinia cambogia showed that fruits contained 19.8 % of fat and 66% carbohydrates while possessed 0.22 % protein. Meanwhile it contained some minerals such as calcium (180 mg/100g) iron (150 mg/100g), magnesium (80 mg/100g) as well as few amounts of zinc (2 mg/100g) and copper (2mg/100g). Hydroxycitric acid (HCA) amount was 8%, while showed high antioxidant activity in cold extract than that found in hot. The effect of Garcinia cambogia extracts on blood parameters of rats showed a significant decreament (at P<0.05) in total lipid, triglycerides, cholesterol, LDL-C, vLDL-C, glucose, albumin, creatinine, urea, ALT and AST activity, while HDL increased compared with control. Total protein and uric acid, showed no significant difference in all groups. It could be concluded that Garcinia cambogia plants has a high antioxidant property and has positive effects on different items of investigated biochemical blood tests. The optained natural extracts possess some benefits effect on health and can be used as a natural preservative substance in food and beverages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: This study was conducted to determine the impact of (−)‐hydroxycitric acid ((−)‐HCA) on biochemical indices and lipid metabolism parameters in chicken embryos. Two hundred and forty fertilized eggs were divided into six groups and injected with (−)‐HCA at concentrations of 0, 0.1, 0.5, 1.0, 10.0 and 50 mg/kg (n = 40). After 19 days of incubation, serum and liver were collected for analysis of biochemical indices and lipid metabolism parameters. Results showed no significant differences on serum biochemical indices: 1–50 mg/kg (−)‐HCA significantly increased serum glucose and hepatic glycogen contents (P < 0.05). Oil Red O staining analysis showed total area, counts of lipid droplets and hepatic triglyceride content were significantly decreased (P < 0.01), meanwhile hepatic lipase and lipoprotein lipase activity were significantly increased (P < 0.05). ACLY, ME1, SREBP‐1c messenger RNA (mRNA) levels in 0.5–10 mg/kg groups and FAS mRNA level in 1–10 mg/kg groups were significantly decreased (P < 0.05), while PPARα mRNA level, serum adiponectin content and AdipoR1 mRNA level were significantly increased in 0.5–50 mg/kg groups (P < 0.05). These results indicated (−)‐HCA treatment inhibited triglyceride synthesis via decreasing lipogenesis‐related factors, mRNA expression level and accelerated lipolysis by enhancing lipoprotein lipase and hepatic lipase activity, which finally reduced lipid droplet accumulation, and this action may be associated with activating the adiponectin signaling pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Garcinia cambogia, a Chinese herbal medicine, was popular due to its effect for weight loss. The main medical component inside was determined to be hydroxycitric acid (HCA). To realize the resource technology of garcinia cambogia residue, Optimum ethanol production from residues was investigated, and the effects of remaining HCA on the ethanol yield were investigated. A Plackett-Burman experimental design was used to screen the significance of several influencing factors, and cellulase, yeast extract, and KH2PO4 were observed to exert important effects. The optimum ethanol fermentation conditions were determined through an orthogonal design to include a cellulase concentration of 100 U/g, a yeast extract concentration of 15 g/L, and a KH2PO4 concentration of 1.0 g/L. The ethanol concentration obtained under optimal conditions was 4.0 g/L. The remained HCA in the residues showed minimal influences on ethanol fermentation and could even increase ethanol yield at low concentrations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Aims: (-)-Hydroxycitric acid (HCA) had been shown to suppress fat accumulation in animals and humans, while the underlying biochemical mechanism is not fully understood, especially little information is available on whether (-)-HCA regulates energy metabolism and consequently affects fat deposition. Methods: Hepatocytes were cultured for 24 h and then exposed to (-)-HCA (0, 1, 10, 50 μM), enzyme protein content was determined by ELISA; lipid metabolism gene mRNA levels were detected by RT-PCR. Results: (-)-HCA significantly decreased the number and total area of lipid droplets. ATP-citrate lyase, fatty acid synthase and sterol regulatory element binding protein-1c mRNA level were significantly decreased after (-)-HCA treatment, whereas peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α mRNA level was significantly increased. (-)-HCA significantly decreased ATP-citrate lyase activity and acetyl-CoA content in cytosol, but significantly increased glucose consumption and mitochondrial oxygen consumption rate. (-)-HCA promoted the activity/content of glucokinase, phosphofructokinase-1, pyruvate kinase, pyruvate dehydrogenase, citrate synthase, aconitase, succinate dehydrogenase, malate dehydrogenase, NADH dehydrogenase and ATP synthase remarkably. Conclusions: (-)-HCA decreased lipid droplets accumulation by reducing acetyl- CoA supply, which mainly achieved via inhibition of ATP-citrate lyase, and accelerating energy metabolism in chicken hepatocytes. These results proposed a biochemical mechanism of fat reduction by (-)-HCA in broiler chickens in term of energy metabolism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A simple capillary zone electrophoresis method with direct ultraviolet detection has been developed for the analysis of naturally occurring diastereomeric 2-hydroxycitric acid lactones. Using 50 mM sodium phosphate buffer of pH 7, a baseline resolution Rs > 3.0 was observed for all organic acids selected for the present study. This method was employed for the quantitative determination of title acids present in the plant sources namely Garcinia cambogia fruit rinds and Hibiscus sabdariffa calyx. Conversion of 2-hydroxycitric acids to their lactones on heating the above plant sources is deliberated. The Hydrolysis of hydroxycitric acid lactones in aqueous solution is reported for the first time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The microspeciation of citric acid is studied by analyzing NMR titration data. When the site binding (SB) model, which assumes fully localized proton binding to the carboxylic groups, is used to obtain microscopic energy parameters (dissociation constants, pair and triplet interaction energies between charged carboxylate groups), contradictory results are obtained. The resulting macroscopic constants are in very good agreement with the values reported in the literature using potentiometry. However, the found pair interaction energy between the terminal carboxylates and the triplet interaction energy are physically meaningless. To solve this apparent contradiction, we consider the possibility of delocalized proton binding, so that the proton can be exchanged at high velocity in the NMR time scale through short, strong, low-barrier (SSLB) hydrogen bonds. With this aim, ab initio MP2 calculations using the SMD polarizable continuum model for the solvent were performed and the fully roto-microspeciation elucidated. First, fully localized proton binding was assumed, and the resulting microstate probabilities are in reasonable agreement with those reported in previous works that use selective blocking of the carboxylic groups. They are, however, in clear disagreement with the microstate probabilities derived from the NMR titration data, which predict, within a very narrow confidence interval, a unique microspecies for the symmetric di-ionized form. Moreover, counterintuitively, the interaction between terminal charged groups is much larger than that between central and terminal groups. As a consequence, we have explored the possibility of delocalized proton binding by calculating the energy of intermediate proton positions between two carbolxylic groups. The results reveal that the exchange of the proton through the hydrogen bonds is in some cases produced without energetic barrier. This effect is specially relevant in the di-ionized form, with all the most stable conformations forming a SSLB, which together would constitute the only microstate detected by NMR. An alternative reaction scheme for the ionization process, based on proton delocalization, is proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydroxycitrate from the fruit of Garcinia cambogia [ i.e. (2 S,3 S)-2-hydroxycitrate] is the best-known inhibitor of ATP-citrate lyase. Well diffracting crystals showing how the inhibitor binds to human ATP-citrate lyase were grown by modifying the protein. The protein was modified by introducing cleavage sites for Tobacco etch virus protease on either side of a disordered linker. The protein crystallized consisted of residues 2-425-ENLYFQ and S-488-810 of human ATP-citrate lyase. (2 S,3 S)-2-Hydroxycitrate binds in the same orientation as citrate, but the citrate-binding domain (residues 248-421) adopts a different orientation with respect to the rest of the protein (residues 4-247, 490-746 and 748-809) from that previously seen. For the first time, electron density was evident for the loop that contains His760, which is phosphorylated as part of the catalytic mechanism. The pro- S carboxylate of (2 S,3 S)-2-hydroxycitrate is available to accept a phosphoryl group from His760. However, when co-crystals were grown with ATP and magnesium ions as well as either the inhibitor or citrate, Mg2+-ADP was bound and His760 was phosphorylated. The phosphoryl group was not transferred to the organic acid. This led to the interpretation that the active site is trapped in an open conformation. The strategy of designing cleavage sites to remove disordered residues could be useful in determining the crystal structures of other proteins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Garcinia atroviridis or commonly named as 'Asam Gelugur' among locals is extensively used as flavouring agent to provide sour sensation. Apart from being used as flavouring agent, G. atroviridis is also used in many ways to promote health traditionally. Previous investigations of the plant reported many interesting potential of antioxidant, antimicrobial, antifungal, antiobesity and lipid metabolism, cytotoxicity, antiinflammatory, antimalarial and antinicotine stress activities of G. atroviridis. This article discusses on G. atroviridis in aspect of its chemical constituents and bioactivities; in vitro and in vivo as well the clinical study made on this plant despite the limited data available. It is also an effort to update G. atroviridis data on its phytochemical and pharmacological data of the plant in the recent 15 years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Owning to the lack of commercial independent germanium deposit and the ever-growing germanium demand of high-tech field, the recovery of germanium from various resources shows strategic significance. In this study, a novel solvent extraction system based on primary amine (N1923) and hydroxycitric acid (HCA) was developed to recover germanium from leaching liquors of secondary zinc oxide and some typical resources. The results indicated that the solvent system showed high extraction efficiency and germanium selectivity; equilibrium pH and the dosage of HCA were the key parameters for germanium recovery, the germanium extraction capacity of an organic phase with 0.24 mol/L N1923 was 7.97 g/L; germanium could be separated from zinc, arsenic, iron, and cadmium at an equilibrium pH of 1.0, and the separation factors of germanium to those elements were up to 1778, 232, 67074, and 14706, respectively; the system was also with well separation performance of germanium from typical germanium containing leachates of copper cake and coal fly ash. Stoichiometry analysis and FT-IR, NMR, and ESI-MS spectra demonstrated that the extraction of germanium followed a coordination anion extraction mechanism, the germanium extraction complexes was RNH 3 ⋅GeO 2 C 6 H 4 O 7. 0.5 mol/L NaOH can be selected for the stripping of germanium.2 [Display omitted] • A novel solvent extraction system for Ge separation was developed and evaluated. • Ge was selectively recovered from leaching liquors of SZO, CFA, Cu cake by N1923. • The extraction behavior of Ge, As, Zn, Cd, Fe by the new system was investigated. • Ge extraction mechanism was discussed via stoichiometry and spectra analyses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fruit wines have found appreciation with global connoisseurs and thus the aim of the study was to produce exotic fruit wines from Garcinia indica (kokum) by blending with a pulpy sugary fruit such as Musa acuminata (banana). Kokum fruit is known for its high content of anthocyanins and hydroxycitric acid. This paper reports eight different must blends of these fruits fermented with Saccharomyces cerevisiae NCIM 3215. Wines were characterised for their physico-chemical properties, antioxidant capacity (462.90 μ m Trolox equivalent) and phenolic (814.78 mg/L) and anthocyanin (68.46 mg/L) content. The best wine was obtained with 1:1 blend of the two fruits (with 10.91% v/v alcohol, 0.6 g/L hydroxycitric acid and 86.8 mg/L garcinol). Gas chromatography mass spectroscopy analysis revealed various fruity and spicy volatile descriptors. The best blend was effectively distinguished from the kokum-dominated and banana-dominated wines and gathered by effective variables (based on principal component analysis). Finally a nine-point hedonic score was used to benchmark this exotic tropical fruit wine against market samples of rosé and red wines, and the results were encouraging. Thus an underutilized but highly valuable fruit, kokum, was shown to be a possible potential candidate for coloured exotic fruit wine production. Copyright © 2016 The Institute of Brewing & Distilling [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Excessive accumulation of fat as the result of more energy intake and less energy expenditure is known as obesity. Lipids are essential components in the human body and are vital for maintaining homeostasis and physiological as well as cellular metabolism. Fatty acid synthesis and catabolism (by fatty acid oxidation) are normal part of basic fuel metabolism in animals. Fatty acids are degraded in the mitochondria by a biochemical process called β-oxidation in which two-carbon fragments are produced in each cycle. The increase in fatty acid β-oxidation is negatively correlated with body mass index. Although healthy life style, avoiding Western diet, dieting and strenuous exercise are the commonly used methods to lose weight, they are not considered a permanent solution in addition to risk attenuation of basal metabolic rate (BMR). Pharmacotherapy offers benefits of weight loss by altering the satiety and lowering absorption of fat from the food; however, its side effects may outweigh the benefits of weight loss. Alternatively, dietary phytochemicals and natural health products offer great potential as an efficient weight loss strategy by modulating lipid metabolism and/or increasing BMR and thermogenesis. Specifically, polyphenols such as citrus flavonoids, green tea epigallocatechin gallate, resveratrol, capsaicin and curcumin, have been reported to increase lipolysis and induce fatty acid β-oxidation through modulation of hormone sensitive lipase, acetyl-coA carboxylase, carnitine acyl transferase and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator-1. In this review article, we discuss selected phytochemicals in relation to their integrated functionalities and specific mechanisms for weight loss. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lipid metabolic reprogramming is involved in mediating tamoxifen (TAM) response in breast cancer cells. Published microarray data indicated that ATP citrate lyase (ACLY) is overexpressed in TAM-resistant BC cells. Hydroxycitric acid (HCA) is a powerful competitive inhibitor of the enzyme ACLY, which links carbohydrates and lipids metabolism. However, whether inhibition of ACLY could modulate TAM response in TAM-resistant BC cells remained unexplored. Thus the current study aimed to explore the effect of ACLY inhibition on TAM-resistant BC cells. The cytotoxicity of TAM and/or HCA on LCC2 and its TAM-sensitive counterpart MCF7 cells was evaluated. Also, the effect of TAM and/or HCA treatments on ACLY protein levels were investigated by western blotting. In addition, the effects of TAM and/or HCA on caspase-3, Bax, and Bcl2 levels were evaluated by ELISA.; besides, and flow cytometric analysis was performed for the detection of apoptosis. Moreover, cholesterol and triglyceride contents of LCC2 and MCF7 were quantified colorimetrically. Our results demonstrated that TAM/HCA co-treatment synergistically diminished LCC2 and MCF7 cell viability, with the effect being more significant on LCC2. Mechanistically, TAM/HCA co-treatment decreases the expression level of ACLY in LCC2 by 74 %, while in MCF7 by only 59 %. Moreover, apoptosis marker caspase-3 and Bax were increased, while the anti-apoptotic Bcl2 was decreased. Furthermore, the cholesterol and TG contents were increased in LCC2 than in MCF7. Our data revealed that ACLY plays a key role in TAM resistance and ACLY inhibition by HCA-mediated sensitization of BC-resistant cells to TAM. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • HCA could selectively separate cassiterite from fluorite with CEPPA as a collector. • Interaction between CEPPA and cassiterite barely affected by weak adsorption of HCA. • Ca sites exposed on fluorite had a stronger affinity for HCA than cassiterite. • Significant adsorption of HCA on fluorite hinders adsorption of CEPPA. As an essential raw material for the tin industry, cassiterite ore needs to be effectively separated and purified, and the removal of impurities such as fluorite becomes the key to cassiterite flotation. In this study, the flotation separation of cassiterite (SnO 2) and fluorite (CaF 2) was enhanced by using hydroxylcitric acid (HCA) as fluorite inhibitor and 2-carboxyphenyl phosphonic acid (CEPPA) as collector. With a reagent scheme of 120 mg/L CEPPA and 4.5 mg/L HCA at pH 10.0, the flotation recovery of cassiterite and fluorite was 92.80% and 13.57%, respectively. Under the same experimental conditions of artificially mixed mineral flotation, the flotation index of cassiterite concentrate grade 78.19% and recovery 90.29% was obtained. The selective adsorption mechanism of CEPPA and HCA on minerals was investigated by Zeta potential, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The results showed that CEPPA anions had chemically adsorbed on cassiterite and fluorite, and the adsorption of HCA on fluorite surface was stronger than that on cassiterite surface. XPS analyses further confirmed that Ca sites exposed on fluorite had a stronger affinity for HCA than cassiterite. Furthermore, the addition of HCA had little effect on the adsorption of CEPPA on cassiterite, while the strong chemisorption of HCA on fluorite surface prevented the adsorption of CEPPA on fluorite. These results provide a theoretical basis and promising new strategy for the flotation separation of cassiterite and fluorite. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary Caloric restriction mimetics (CRMs) mimic the biochemical effects of nutrient deprivation by reducing lysine acetylation of cellular proteins, thus triggering autophagy. Treatment with the CRM hydroxycitrate, an inhibitor of ATP citrate lyase, induced the depletion of regulatory T cells (which dampen anticancer immunity) from autophagy-competent, but not autophagy-deficient, mutant KRAS-induced lung cancers in mice, thereby improving anticancer immunosurveillance and reducing tumor mass. Short-term fasting or treatment with several chemically unrelated autophagy-inducing CRMs, including hydroxycitrate and spermidine, improved the inhibition of tumor growth by chemotherapy in vivo. This effect was only observed for autophagy-competent tumors, depended on the presence of T lymphocytes, and was accompanied by the depletion of regulatory T cells from the tumor bed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The aim of this study is to assess the uses of products containing Garcinia cambogia to burn fat and suppressed the appetite. Introduction: The availability and popularity of natural dietary supplements for the treatment of obesity have risen dramatically in recent years. Investigation and analysis on the efficacy and effectiveness of the G. cambogia are challenging. Furthermore, consuming the products that claimed the anti-obesity effect without a strong judgment is not an appropriate way to losing weight. The overweight prevalence of 29.71 % for the Malaysian adults aged 18-59 years indicates that the overweight problem in Malaysia is almost as serious as that for the developed countries. Methodology: An electronic search of PubMed, CINAHL, ScienceDirect, Clinical Key for studies, case report, trials and reviews using the following search criteria. Examining the product registration in Pharmaceutical Division Services, Ministry of Health. The Malaysian Advertisement Board was referred. Results: Consumers in Malaysia most likely tend to have a fast method in losing the weight. When the product is advertised inappropriately without any strong evidence based, the Malaysian society is solely at risk in buying the product that does not have a confirmed effectiveness and efficacy. The doubts in using G. cambogia are because the marketed product is there is no single formulation that contains only G. Cambogia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The factors driving the dominance of the Calvin-Benson-Bassham cycle (CBB) or reductive citric acid cycle (rCAC) in autotrophic microorganisms in different habitats are debated. Based on costs for synthesizing a few metabolic intermediates, it has been suggested that the CBB poses a disadvantage due to higher metabolic cost. The purpose of this study was to extend this estimate of cost from metabolite synthesis to biomass synthesis. For 12 gammaproteobacteria (CBB) and five epsilonproteobacteria (rCAC), the amount of ATP to synthesize a gram of biomass from CO2 was calculated from genome sequences via metabolic maps. The eleven central carbon metabolites needed to synthesize biomass were all less expensive to synthesize via the rCAC (66%-89% of the ATP needed to synthesize them via CBB). Differences in cell compositions did result in differing demands for metabolites among the organisms, but the differences in cost to synthesize biomass were small among organisms that used a particular pathway (e.g. rCAC), compared to the difference between pathways (rCAC versus CBB). The rCAC autotrophs averaged 0.195 moles ATP per g biomass, while their CBB counterparts averaged 0.238. This is the first in silico estimate of the relative expense of both pathways to generate biomass. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Chicken as a delicious food for a long history, and it is well known that excess fat deposition in broiler chickens will not only induced metabolic diseases, but also lead to adverse effect in the consumer's health. (-)-Hydroxycitric acid (HCA), a major active ingredient of Garcinia Cambogia extracts, had shown to suppress fat accumulation in animals and humans. While, the precise physiological mechanism of HCA has not yet been full clarified, especially its action in broiler chickens. Thus, this study aimed to assess the effect of (-)-HCA on lipid metabolism in broiler chickens. Methods: A total of 120 1-day-old broiler chickens were randomly allocated to four groups, with each group was repeated three times with 10 birds. Birds received a commercial diet supplemented with (-)-HCA at 0, 1000, 2000 or 3000 mg/kg, respectively, for a period of 4 weeks ad libitum. Results: Body weight (BW) in the 2000 and 3000 mg/kg (-)-HCA groups was significantly decreased (P < 0.05) than that in control group. A significantly decreased of serum triglyceride (TG) and density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C) content were observed in 3000 mg/kg (-)-HCA group (P < 0.05). Broiler chickens supplmented with 2000 and 3000 mg/kg (-)-HCA had pronouncedly higher hepatic lipase (HL) activity, hepatic glycogen and non-esterified fatty acid (NEFA) contents in liver (P < 0.05). Serum free triiodothyronine (FT3) and thyroxin (T4) contents were significantly higher in 3000 mg/kg (-)-HCA group (P < 0.05) compared with the control group. Supplemental (-)-HCA markedly decreased fatty acid synthase (FAS) and sterol regulatory element binding protein-1c (SREBP-1c) (P < 0.05) mRNA levels, while the mRNA abundance of adenosine 5'-monophosphateactivated protein kinaseβ2 (AMPKβ2) (P < 0.05) was significantly increased. In addition, ATP-citrate lyase (ACLY) mRNA level (P < 0.05) was significantly decreased in broiler chickens supplemented with 3000 mg/kg (-)-HCA. No differences was observed on carnitine palmitoyl transferase-I(CPT-I), while peroxisome proliferators-activated receptor α (PPARα) mRNA level (P < 0.05) was significantly increased in broiler chickens supplemented with 2000 and 3000 mg/kg (-)-HCA. Conclusions: Supplemental (-)-HCA inhibited lipogenesis by inhibiting ACLY, SREBP-1c and FAS expression, and accelerated lipolysis through enhancing HL activity and PPARa expression, which eventually led to the reduced abdominal fat deposition in broiler chickens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a case study of a 56-year-old woman brought to the emergency room with altered mental status, having a history significant for insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus, hypertension, hepatitis C infection, and opioid abuse. The use of the patient of garcinia cambogia (GC) supplements may have contributed to her diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) and pancreatitis. The serious adverse effects of the supplements especially in patients with pre-existing metabolic disorders are tackled.

The fruit rind of Garcinia gummi-gutta , commonly known as Garcinia cambogia (syn.), is extensively used traditionally as a flavourant in fish curries due to its sharp sour taste. Additional ethnobotanical uses include its use as a digestive and a traditional remedy to treat bowel complaints, intestinal parasites and rheumatism. This small fruit, reminiscent of a pumpkin in appearance, is currently most popularly used and widely advertised as a weight-loss supplement. Studies have shown that the extracts as well as (−)-hydroxycitric acid (HCA), a main organic acid component of the fruit rind, exhibited anti-obesity activity including reduced food intake and body fat gain by regulating the serotonin levels related to satiety, increased fat oxidation and decreased de novo lipogenesis. HCA is a potent inhibitor of adenosine triphosphate-citrate lyase, a catalyst for the conversion process of citrate to acetyl-coenzyme A, which plays a key role in fatty acid, cholesterol and triglycerides syntheses. The crude extract or constituents from the plant also exerted hypolipidaemic, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, anthelmintic, anticholinesterase and hepatoprotective activities in in vitro and in vivo models. Phytochemical studies of various plant parts revealed the presence of mainly xanthones (e.g. carbogiol) and benzophenones (e.g. garcinol) together with organic acids (e.g. HCA) and amino acids (e.g. gamma aminobutyric acid). Currently, a large number of G. cambogia /HCA dietary supplements for weight management are being sold although the possible toxicity associated with the regular use of these supplements has raised concerns. In most cases, complaints have been related to multicomponent formulations and at this stage G. cambogia has not been confirmed as the potentially toxic culprit. This review presents a scientific overview of G. cambogia with reference to relevant botanical aspects, ethnobotanical uses, phytochemistry and biological activity as well as toxicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Obesity leads to derangements in lipid and glucose homeostasis resulting in various metabolic complications. Plants containing vital phytochemicals are known to posses anti obesity properties and have proved to exert beneficial effects in obesity. Objectives: The present study was aimed to investigate the effects of Garcinia Cambogia on body weight, glucose tolerance and inflammation in high fat diet fed male Wistar rats. Materials and Methods: Five month old male wistar rats (n=40) were divided into four groups. Two groups were fed with standard rodent diet and the remaining two with 30% high fat diet. One group in each of the two sets received the crude ethanolic extract of Garcinia Cambogia at a dose of 400mg/kg body weight/day for ten weeks. Body weight, intraperitoneal glucose tolerance test, leptin, tumour necrosis factor-ɑ(TNF-ɑ) and renal function (urea, creatinine, uric acid) were studied. Results: High fat diet fed rats showed increased body weight gain, glucose intolerance, elevated levels of plasma leptin and TNF-ɑ. Supplementation of Garcinia Cambogia extract (GE) along with high fat diet significantly decreased body weight gain, glucose intolerance, plasma leptin and TNF-ɑlevel. No significant changes were observed in the renal function parameters in any of the groups. Conclusion: Supplementation of the Garcinia Cambogia extract with high fat diet reduced body weight gain, inflammation and glucose intolerance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hibiscus sabdariffa L. (Hs, roselle; Malvaceae) has been used traditionally as a food, in herbal drinks, in hot and cold beverages, as a flavouring agent in the food industry and as a herbal medicine. In vitro and in vivo studies as well as some clinical trials provide some evidence mostly for phytochemically poorly characterised Hs extracts. Extracts showed antibacterial, anti-oxidant, nephro- and hepato-protective, renal/diuretic effect, effects on lipid metabolism (anti-cholesterol), anti-diabetic and anti-hypertensive effects among others. This might be linked to strong antioxidant activities, inhibition of α-glucosidase and α-amylase, inhibition of angiotensin-converting enzymes (ACE), and direct vaso-relaxant effect or calcium channel modulation. Phenolic acids (esp. protocatechuic acid), organic acid (hydroxycitric acid and hibiscus acid) and anthocyanins (delphinidin-3-sambubioside and cyanidin-3-sambubioside) are likely to contribute to the reported effects. More well designed controlled clinical trials are needed which use phytochemically characterised preparations. Hs has an excellent safety and tolerability record. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress is an emerging potential therapeutic target for metabolic syndrome due to its role in synthesis, secretion, and folding of proteins. It leads to an increased production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) which, along with mitochondrial dysfunction and reduced antioxidant defense, causes chronic cell injury. The present investigation aims to observe the alterations in adipocytes due to ER stress and the protective effect of hydroxycitric acid (HCA), a bioactive from Garcinia species, to develop the same as a nutraceutical. ER stress was induced in mature 3T3-L1 adipocytes by treating them with tunicamycin (2μg/ml) for 18 h. Alterations in cell viability, innate antioxidant system (superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and glutathione reductase), mitochondria (membrane potential, biogenesis, and transition pore opening), and inflammatory cytokines (tumor necrosis factor, monocyte chemoattractant protein, interferon-γ, interleukin (IL)-10, IL-6, and IL-1β) during ER stress, and co-treatment with HCA were analyzed. Endocrine function of adipocytes was also assessed by measuring adiponectin and leptin secretion levels. HCA protected the cells from ER stress by improving the antioxidant status and mitochondrial functions. The results validate nutraceutical properties of the edible bioactive, commonly used for culinary purpose. A more detailed study on the mechanism of action of HCA is required for developing it as a therapeutic agent for metabolic syndrome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The US patented polyherbal formulation for the prevention and management of Type II diabetes and its vascular complications was used for the present study. The formulation consists of roots of Salacia species, leaves of Lagestroemia parviflora and fruit rind of Garcinia indica. The use of reversed phase C18 HPLC column was used and eluted with isocratic mobile phase of acetonitrile and phosphoric acid buffer solution enabled the efficient separation of chemical markers within 20min. Validation of the method was performed in order to demonstrate its selectivity, accuracy, precision, repeatability and recovery. All calibration curve shows good linear correlation coefficients (r²>0.995) within tested ranges. Three markers in this polyherbal formulation were quantified were Mangiferin (1.53% w/w), Ellagic acid (0.9655 w/w), Hydroxycitric acid (5.3% w/w). Intra and inter day RSDs of retention times and peak areas were less than 3%. The recoveries were between 95% and 102.5%. In conclusion a method has been developed for the simultaneous quantification of three markers in this polyherbal formulation. The established RP-HPLC method was simple, precise and accurate and can be used for the quality control of the raw materials as well as formulations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND (−)-Hydroxycitric acid ( HCA) is the major acid present in the fruit rinds of certain species of Garcinia. HCA has been reported to have several health benefits. As HCA is highly hygroscopic in nature and thermally sensitive, it is difficult to incorporate in foodstuffs. Hence, Garcinia cowa fruit extract was microencapsulated using three different wall materials such as whey protein isolate ( WPI), maltodextrin ( MD) and a combination of whey protein isolate and maltodextrin ( WPI + MD) by spray drying. Further, these microencapsulated powders were evaluated for their impact on bread quality and HCA retention. RESULTS Maltodextrin ( MD) encapsulates had higher free (86%) and net HCA (90%) recovery. Microencapsulates incorporated breads had enhanced qualitative characteristics and higher HCA content than water extract incorporated bread due to efficient encapsulation during bread baking. Comparatively, bread with MD encapsulates showed softer crumb texture, desirable sensory attributes with considerable volume and higher HCA content. CONCLUSION The higher HCA contents of encapsulate incorporated breads were sufficient to claim for functionality of HCA in bread. Comparatively, MD had efficiently encapsulated Garcinia fruit extract during spray drying and bread baking. Spray drying proved to be an excellent encapsulation technique for incorporation into the food system. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Microencapsulation is an enduring technology for protection and controlled release of food ingredients. The Garcinia cowa fruit rinds are rich source of (−)-hydroxycitric acid (HCA), which is reported to have various health benefits. But, HCA is hygroscopic in nature and thermally sensitive. Hence, G. cowa fruit extract was microencapsulated using three different wall materials such as whey protein isolate (WPI), maltodextrin (MD) and combination of whey protein isolate and maltodextrin (WPI+MD in 1:1 ratio) by freeze drying at 30% concentration. The microencapsulated powders were evaluated for their impact on bread quality and free HCA concentration. The microcapsules exhibited wider particle size range of 15–100μm and HPLC analysis showed that all the three encapsulates yielded higher free (above 85%) and net (above 90%) HCA recovery. Moreover, bread with WPI encapsulates exhibited higher volume, softer crumb texture, desirable colour and sensory attributes and had higher free HCA concentration. This indicated that WPI has excellent encapsulation efficiency than other two wall materials during bread baking. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

(–)-Hydroxycitric acid (HCA) is the principal acid present in the fruit rinds of certain species of Garcinia and is reported to have various health benefits. However, HCA is highly hygroscopic in nature and becomes lactonised during evaporation and drying. To reduce the lactonisation of HCA, Garcinia cowa fruit extract was obtained through two different extraction techniques, autoclave and microwave-assisted extractions, and was then microencapsulated using whey protein isolate (WPI) and denatured whey protein isolate (DWPI) with a 1:1 wall-to-core ratio using a spray drying technique. The microwave-assisted extracts encapsulated with WPI and DWPI had higher free HCA and net HCA recovery than the autoclaved extract encapsulated with similar wall materials. Furthermore, the microwave-assisted extracts and the associated encapsulated samples had higher antioxidant activity than their counterparts. The encapsulation of the microwave-assisted extracts with both wall materials had little variations in their free (55.04 and 54.58% for WPI and DWPI, respectively) and net HCA recovery (84 and 82%) and antioxidant activity (13.3 and 13.6%), which signified a smaller influence of the wall materials. These results indicated that microwave-assisted extraction had a higher extraction efficiency, encapsulation efficiency and antioxidant activity with both wall materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several studies have shown that Garcinia cambogia plays an important role in the regulation of endogenous lipid biosynthesis. This effect is specially attributed to (-)-hydroxycitric acid (HCA) inhibiting the enzyme ATP-dependent citrate lyase, which catalyzes the cleavage of citrate to oxaloacetate and acetyl-CoA. Although several studies have found that the administration of G. cambogia extracts is associated with body weight and fat loss in both experimental animals and humans, we should be cautious when interpreting the results as other randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trials have not reported the same outcomes. Furthermore, most studies in humans have been conducted on small samples and mainly in the short term. None of them have shown whether these effects persist beyond 12 weeks of intervention. Therefore, there is still little evidence to support the potential effectiveness and long-term benefits of G. cambogia extracts. With regard to toxicity and safety, it is important to note that except in rare cases, studies conducted in experimental animals have not reported increased mortality or significant toxicity. Furthermore, at the doses usually administered, no differences have been reported in terms of side effects or adverse events (those studied) in humans between individuals treated with G. cambogia and controls. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]