Quercetin modulates appetite regulating hormones, redox parameters and inflammation in aged male Wistar rats

Quercetin (3,5,7,3′,4′-pentahydroxy flavone) is a flavanol that is comprehensively apportioned
in fruits and vegetables. Quercetin is widely reported to ease inflammation and improve redox balance, with many experimental studies showing lowered cytokine levels and better oxidative status. Additionally, recent research has shown that quercetin is linked to appetite modulation. This research examines the effectiveness of quercetin supplementation in addressing age-related metabolic issues in a rat model of accelerated aging induced by D-galactose treatment. Four groups of Wistar rats (Rattus norvegicus) were taken, Group I (fed on standard diet), Group II (Quercetin treated with oral dose of 100 mg/kg b.w.) Group III (accelerated aging model with D-galactose, 300 mg/kg b.w, subcutaneous), group IV (Quercetin administration + D-gal) for 28 days. We assessed biomarkers of oxidative stress, antioxidant parameters and hormonal balance in erythrocyte, plasma and serum. We observed that aged rats showed poor appetite regulation, marked by increased leptin levels and decreased ghrelin levels, along with signs of insulin resistance, lipid abnormalities, and liver dysfunction. Quercetin supplementation helped to correct these hormonal discrepancies, improving insulin sensitivity, and restored lipid and liver enzyme profiles to healthier ranges. Quercetin supplementation regulated hormonal equilibrium, potentially enhancing antioxidant defences, and relieving inflammation associated with aging, thereby underscoring its potential as both an anti-aging agent and an appetite modulator. This study could improve the understanding of how natural substances like quercetin might play a role in maintaining metabolic health and reduce age-related issues through appetite regulation.