Sustainable Solutions From Silkworms: Antheraea assamensis Helfer Oil Regulates Oxidative Stress, Lipid Metabolism, and Liver Health-Navigating Future Food Challenges.

Abstract

Silkworms are emerging as a sustainable food source to address global food security, with their proteins recognized for nutritional and medicinal benefits. However, the impact of silkworm oil on immunological and pharmacological effects remains unexplored. This study explores the effects of the muga (Antheraea assamensis Helfer) silkworm pupal oil fraction (MP) on palmitic acid (PA) induced hepatic steatosis, inflammation, and oxidative stress. The findings revealed that MP supplementation significantly reduced lipid accumulation in PA treated CC1 hepatocytes as demonstrated by Oil red O and Nile red staining. Mechanistic investigations showed that MP modified the protein expressions and mRNA levels of genes involved in lipogenesis and cholesterol homeostasis, while upregulating genes responsible for β-oxidation. Additionally, MP treatment enhanced the phosphorylation of AMPK, a crucial metabolic energy sensor, and reduced the phosphorylation of NF-κB, which is associated with inflammation. The study concludes that the muga silkworm pupal oil fraction (MP) has the potential to serve as an effective nutraceutical, contributing to the development of therapeutic strategies for managing dysregulated lipid metabolism and associated inflammatory conditions.