Identification of Glyasperin B as a Lipolytic Agent with Anti-Obesity Activity from the Licorice Extract of <i>Glycyrrhiza uralensis</i>

Obesity is recognized as a significant public health concern. Although licorice extract from the root of Glycyrrhiza uralensis exhibits anti-obesity effects, limited knowledge regarding its active components has hindered the development of standardized preparations. Therefore, this study aimed to identify the compound responsible for the anti-obesity activity of licorice extract. By isolating and characterizing a compound exhibiting lipolytic activity against 3T3-L1 adipocytes, glyasperin B was identified. In a diet-induced obesity mouse model, the efficacy of licorice extracts correlated with glyasperin B content, suggesting that glyasperin B is a key contributor to the anti-obesity effects of Glycyrrhiza uralensis. This study’s findings may facilitate the standardized preparation of licorice extracts for weight management, potentially aiding in the fight against obesity.