Gut Microbiota Modulation and Anti-Obesity Potential of Epigallocatechin-3-Gallate-Quercetin-Rutin Against High-Fat Diet-Induced Obesity in Rats.

Polyphenols have been widely recognized for their potential anti-obesity effects. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of a polyphenol compound-epigallocatechin-3-gallate, quercetin, and rutin (EQR) on obesity-related parameters and gut microbiota composition. After four weeks of high-fat diet (HFD) induction, the obese Wistar male rats received EQR treatment for an additional four weeks. EQR supplementation significantly reduced body weight gain, feed efficiency, adipose tissue accumulation, and liver lipid content in obese rats. Additionally, it enhanced fecal short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) levels and modulated gut microbiota composition. Specifically, EQR treatment significantly induced , , , , , , and levels and reduced and levels. Gene expression analysis in liver, white adipose tissue (WAT), and brown adipose tissue (BAT) revealed that EQR upregulated the expression of liver , WAT , and BAT , while downregulating liver , liver , and WAT , indicating its role in promoting fatty acid oxidation and thermogenesis, as well as suppressing lipid synthesis and transport. In conclusion, EQR demonstrated significant anti-obesity effects by modulating gut microbiota and lipid metabolism, suggesting its potential as a functional ingredient for obesity management.