SUNCA Standardized Extract from Helianthus annus L Exerts Enhanced Digestive Enzyme Activity and Subsides Obesity through Inhibition of C/EBP-α and PPAR-γ Expression Both in in vitro and in vivo Model

Background: Helianthus annuus L. (sunflower) is well known for its edible oil, sunflower seed has been used as folk remedy for several diseases including cancer. Materials and Methods: In this study, SUNCA, a standardized extract enriched with chlorogenic acid (CGA) from sunflower seed was investigated for in vitro antidiabetic activity using α‑amylase and α‑glucosidase enzyme inhibition assay. Further, for preventing obesity, we demonstrated anti‑adipogenesis in 3T3‑L1 cell culture system and on body weight gain and adiposity in rat fed high‑fat diet (HFD). Results: SUNCA showed significant inhibitory activity toward digestive enzymes such as α‑amylase and α‑glucosidase. On the other hand, SUNCA significantly inhibits lipid accumulation during adipogenesis in a dose‑dependent manner. The treatment with 100 µg/kg b.w of SUNCA apparently prevented the body weight gain and the increase of triglyceride and total cholesterol level in rat fed an HFD for 6 weeks. Further immunoblotting studies reveal that SUNCA significantly down‑regulates the expression of transcription factors peroxisome proliferator‑activated receptor gamma and CCAT/enhancer‑binding protein alpha, both in adipocytes and adipose tissues. Conclusion: The findings reported here provide the therapeutic potential of SUNCA, a standardized extract from Helanthus annus L.