Lipid lowering and antioxidative stress potential of Eriobotrya japonica (var. Tanaka) in hypercaloric-fed mice

Loquat fruit is enjoyed for its taste and health benefits due to its rich content of phenolics, flavonoids, and carotenoids. This study analyzed the Moroccan Tanaka variety of loquat juice and examined its effects on lipid metabolism and liver steatosis in hyperlipidemic mice. The biochemical composition was assessed using AOAC methods, and an in vivo experiment involved mice fed a high-fat, high-fructose diet for six weeks. Mice were treated with loquat juice (3.5 and 7 mL/kg) or fenofibrate (4 mg/kg), and lipid levels in plasma, tissues, feces, and bile, along with blood glucose, were measured. Liver steatosis and injury markers (AST, ALT, LDH, TB) were assessed, while oxidative stress was evaluated through MDA levels and antioxidant enzyme activities. The juice was low in fat and protein, moderate in sugars, and had a low energy value (46.43 ± 2.35 kcal/100 g), while being rich in minerals, vitamin C, phenolic acids, flavonoids, and carotenoids. It improved lipid metabolism by promoting reverse cholesterol transport and reducing LDL cholesterol, triglycerides, and atherogenic index. Additionally, it lowered blood glucose, prevented weight gain, and reduced lipid accumulation in the liver and adipose tissues. The juice also prevented liver injury by normalizing toxicity markers and improving liver structure. It reduced oxidative stress by lowering MDA and activating antioxidant enzymes like SOD and catalase. These findings suggest that loquat juice holds potential for preventing lipid-related disorders and liver damage.