The limited efficacy and side effects of the currently available anti-obesity drugs highlight the need for safer and more effective alternatives. Phytocompounds such as resveratrol and laminarin have shown potential for obesity management, but their use is limited by poor stability and low absorption. This study aimed to evaluate the anti-obesity potential of a liposome-based co-delivery system containing resveratrol and laminarin in a high-fat diet-induced animal model. Liposomes were prepared using the thin-film hydration method and characterized for morphology, particle size, and surface charge. Cytotoxicity was assessed in 3T3 fibroblast cells using the MTT assay. Obesity was induced in C57BL/6J mice through a high-fat diet, followed by treatment with the developed formulation. Body weight, serum lipid profile, liver, and adipose tissue morphology were evaluated. Gene expression analysis of key metabolic regulators was performed using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. The developed liposomes exhibited a mean particle size of 120.7 nm and a stable surface charge. The formulation showed acceptable safety in vitro . In vivo , treated groups showed reduced body weight gain, improved serum lipid parameters, and smaller adipocytes compared with the high-fat diet group. Gene expression analysis indicated increased expression of energy-regulating genes and reduced expression of adipogenesis-related markers. The liposome co-delivery system improved the anti-obesity effects of resveratrol and laminarin, leading to beneficial effects on obesity-related parameters. These findings suggest that this formulation has potential as a functional food ingredient or nutraceutical for managing obesity and associated metabolic disorders. • Resveratrol and laminarin are two plant-derived compounds with proven therapeutic activities. • Its protective effects against obesity are highlighted. • Liposome as a carrier vehicle is used to increase the efficiency of the phytochemicals. • The mechanism through which the bioactive compounds exert their anti- obesity effects is provided.
Shaji et al. (Wed,) studied this question.