Lipase Inhibition and Amelioration of High-fat Diet-induced Obesity Potential of Cajanus Cajan (Pigeon pea) Seeds: A legume Used by Foumban and Dschang Localities of Cameroon

Abstract

Introduction: High-calorie intake and an unbalanced lifestyle are the two foremost determinants of obesity incipience. Devising new pharmaceutical molecules with low adverse events is a challenging task. Herbal medicinal plants are safer drugs and offer plenty of nutritional and therapeutic benefits. Background: Cajanus cajan seeds are traditionally used by the Foumban and Dschang localities of Cameroon in the management of obesity. No scientific study depicting the role of this plant in obesity management has been reported yet. Aim: Present study was undertaken to evaluate the anti-obesity effect of seeds extract of C.cajan. Methods: Anti-obesity activity of seeds extract of C.cajan. was studied by in-vitro and in-vivo methods. Phytochemical screening was also performed to ascertain the presence of secondary metabolites in the extract. In-vitro lipase inhibition assay was performed using porcine pancreatic lipase enzyme in various concentrations (100-500µg/ml). In the in-vivo model, obesity was induced by a high-fat diet and seeds extract was administered orally at doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg for 4 weeks. Results: Phytochemical screening reported the presence of carbohydrates, tannins, alkaloids, phenolic compounds, glycosides, and flavonoids. Seeds extract inhibited lipase enzyme in a dose-dependent manner with IC50 value 205.28µg. The extract showed a decline in weight gain, diminished hyperlipidaemia and restored hepatic biochemistry. Conclusion: C. cajan seed extract possesses anti-obesity effects, which might be due to lipase inhibitory effects.