Green Algae a Source of Potent Anti-Fat Compound

A carotenoid from green algae known as siphonaxanthin may have a role in future non-drug approaches for weight management.  Zhuo-Si Li, from Kyoto University (Japan), and colleagues employed a cell study in which cells were incubated with a solution of siphonaxanthin, with results suggesting a dose-dependent effect on fat accumulation as well as the expression of genes associated with the formation of fat cells.  The team also engaged a mouse model to ascertain that a daily 1.3 mg dose of siphonaxanthin for six weeks reduced white adipose tissue weight by 13%.  The study authors submit that: “These results provide evidence that siphonaxanthin may effectively regulate adipogenesis.”