Multi-omics analysis reveals the anti-hyperlipidemic mechanism of 1,8-cineole from Camphora longepaniculata essential oil via gut microbiota and lipid metabolism modulation

Background High-fat diet-induced hyperlipidemia exerts prominent impacts on human health and economic development. 1,8-cineole (CIN), the major component of Camphora longepaniculata essential oil, possesses bioactive properties. However, the lipid-lowering efficacy and molecular mechanisms of CIN remain insufficiently and systematically investigated. Methods This study assessed the effects of CIN on physiological indices and serum biochemical parameters in high-fat diet-fed mice. Metagenomic sequencing, transcriptomics, and untargeted metabolomics were further adopted to analyze CIN-induced changes in gut microbiota composition, hepatic gene expression, and serum metabolite profiles. Results The results showed that CIN significantly decreased serum TG and LDL-C while increasing the level of HDL-C. In addition, CIN treatment was associated with a reduced Bacillota / Bacteroidota ratio, a restoration of the HFD-induced Bacteroidota shift and a modulation of Bacteroides at the genus and species level, modulation of hepatic expression of Fasn , Hmgcs1 , Cyp4a14 , and Acot1 , and remodeling of serum metabolites involved in glycerophospholipid and linoleic acid metabolism. Conclusion This study provides novel insights into the treatment of hyperlipidemia and validates the potential development of CIN as a functional food component.