Targeting hepatic CYP7A1: An in vivo assessment for the antidiabetic and lipid-lowering effects of Punica granatum and Beta vulgaris

Background Diabetic dyslipidemia poses significant health risks; this study assesses the efficacy of traditionally used Punica granatum and Beta vulgaris in lowering blood sugar and lipids, focusing on their influence on hepatic CYP7A1 expression, which is crucial for cholesterol regulation. Methods A type 2 diabetic-dyslipidemic rat model was established by injecting streptozotocin in neonates, followed by a diet higher in cholesterol and fat. The animals were allocated into five groups ( n=6 ): Normal Control (NC), Diabetic-Dyslipidemic Control (DDC), Gliclazide (GT; 20 mg/kg), P. granatum extract (PG; 1.25 g/kg), and B. vulgaris extract (BV; 1.25 g/kg). Over 28 days, the investigation assessed body weight, fasting glucose, serum insulin, lipid profiles, and hepatic CYP7A1 mRNA expression. Phytochemical and antioxidant analyses were also performed. Results Both PG and BV extracts were rich in flavonoids and phenols. Significant metabolic improvements were observed in each group treated with plant extracts, relative to the DDC control group. These improvements included a marked decrease in fasting glucose ( p<0.001 ), as well as suppressed lower levels of total cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL, and higher HDL levels. A significant recovery of serum insulin and a reduction in body weight also accompanied these changes. Crucially, the diabetic state suppressed hepatic CYP7A1 expression, and treatment with both extracts upregulated its expression, providing a mechanism for the observed cholesterol reduction. Conclusion P. granatum and B. vulgaris extracts demonstrate potent antidiabetic and lipid-lowering capabilities by simultaneously improving insulin secretion and boosting cholesterol catabolism via hepatic CYP7A1 upregulation.