Chitosan from Labeo rohita fish scales and its effects on ameliorating high-carbohydrate-high-fat diet-induced metabolic dysfunction by modulating mRNA expression of LDL-R in obese rats

Abstract

Background

Chitosan, a natural biopolymer that is widely used in the food industry, offers various pharmacological benefits. Most pharmacological research focuses on non-fish sources of chitosan, but in this study, chitosan was extracted from Labeo rohita scales to evaluate its potential to reduce obesity and related metabolic disorders. This approach repurposes fish waste into a valuable resource and provides an eco-friendly alternative source of pharmaceutical raw materials.

Methods

Chitosan was extracted using an established method, followed by characterization and evaluation of its physical properties. Pharmacological effects were studied in Wistar rats divided into six groups: Control, HCHF, HCHF + atorvastatin, HCHF + chitosan (150 mg/kg), HCHF + chitosan (300 mg/kg), and HCHF + chitosan (500 mg/kg). The study measured glucose tolerance, food intake, body and organ weights, liver damage markers, lipid profiles, oxidative stress markers, and mRNA expression to explore underlying mechanisms.

Results

Infrared spectrum analysis confirmed the successful extraction of chitosan, with physical properties similar to commercial chitosan. Chitosan supplementation significantly (p < 0.05) reduced weight gain and improved glucose tolerance in a dose-dependent manner. It also improved lipid profiles, bringing the atherogenic coefficient into the normal range. This effect was achieved due to increased LDL-R mRNA expression in chitosan-supplemented rats, which enhanced cholesterol clearance. Chitosan restored ALT, AST, and ALP levels to normal and also increased antioxidant enzyme levels (GSH, SOD, CAT) in a dose-dependent manner.

Conclusion

Our data shows that Chitosan from Labeo rohita scales effectively mitigates HCHF diet-induced obesity and metabolic dysfunction.