Hormonal Regulation in Obesity: The Dose-dependent Impact of <i>Artocarpus altilis</i> Extract on Ghrelin, Leptin, and Adiponectin

Background: Obesity is a global health concern linked to metabolic dysregulation, including alterations in key hormones such as ghrelin, leptin, and adiponectin, which regulate appetite, energy metabolism, and adiposity. Artocarpus altilis (Moraceae) has been explored for its therapeutic potential in obesity management, but its effects on these hormones remain unclear. Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of A. altilis extract on ghrelin, leptin, and adiponectin levels in obesity-induced rats and compare its efficacy to metformin, a standard anti-obesity agent. Methods: Thirty male obesity-induced rats were divided into five groups: Negative Control (NC), positive control treated with metformin 45 mg/kg (PC), and three treatment groups receiving A. altilis extract at doses of 200 mg/kg (EA1), 300 mg/kg (EA2), and 400 mg/kg (EA3). Hormone levels were measured, and statistical analysis was performed using ANOVA and post hoc tests. Results: ANOVA revealed significant differences (P < 0.05) in hormone levels across groups. Ghrelin levels were significantly reduced in all treatment groups, with the most pronounced effect in EA3 (2287 ± 85.84 ng/L, P < 0.0001 vs. NC). Leptin levels increased dose-dependently, with EA3 showing the highest levels (16.89 ± 1.129 ng/mL, P < 0.01 vs. NC). Adiponectin levels were significantly elevated in EA2 and EA3, with no significant differences between these groups (P ≥ 0.05). Conclusion: A. altilis extract demonstrated significant, dose-dependent modulation of ghrelin, leptin, and adiponectin levels, highlighting its potential as a natural therapeutic agent for obesity management. Major Findings: A. altilis extract significantly reduced ghrelin levels, increased leptin in a dose-dependent manner, and elevated adiponectin at higher doses, demonstrating its potential as a natural therapeutic agent for obesity management.