Sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides L.) as a source of fatty acids involved in maintaining glucose and lipid homeostasis

Abstract

Metabolic diseases such as obesity, type 2 diabetes (T2DM), and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) are among the most serious health problems worldwide. Researchers are actively exploring novel antidiabetic therapies, particularly those targeting G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) and innovative dietary strategies to mitigate disease symptoms. Sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides L.) is a potential candidate for supplementing the diet of individuals with metabolic diseases due to its numerous bioactive substances, such as fatty acids, carotenoids, sterols and tocols. Its antidiabetic properties are primarily attributed to its fatty acid content which exerts effects through GPCR-mediated pathways. Among these fatty acids, a monounsaturated palmitoleic acid (POA) beneficially affects metabolic parameters commonly disturbed in metabolic diseases. However, some studies contradict these reports, indicating a correlation between elevated serum POA levels and coronary artery disease, NADFL and T2DM. A key factor contributing to these discrepancies is the isomeric form of POA: cis and trans. Many studies fail to distinguish between these isomers, despite emerging evidence that they may activate distinct signaling pathways, particularly in pancreatic β-cells. This inconsistency underscores the need for further comparative research on the biological activity of POA isomers. Nevertheless, both POA and sea buckthorn oil remain promising dietary components that could support modern nutritional interventions for managing metabolic diseases.