AKBA

Acetyl-11-keto-beta-boswellic acid (AKBA) is a natural compound derived from the resin of Boswellia serrata, a tree native to India, North Africa, and the Middle East. It is a bioactive component of Boswellia serrata, commonly known as Indian frankincense or Salai guggul. Boswellia serrata has been used for centuries in traditional Ayurvedic medicine for its anti-inflammatory properties.

AKBA is a pentacyclic triterpene acid and is considered one of the most pharmacologically active compounds found in Boswellia serrata resin. It is formed through the enzymatic conversion of another compound called 11-keto-β-boswellic acid (KBA).

Research has shown that AKBA possesses various biological activities, including anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and anti-microbial properties. It is primarily known for its anti-inflammatory effects, particularly in the context of reducing inflammation associated with chronic diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and asthma.

AKBA's anti-inflammatory mechanism of action involves inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, such as 5-lipoxygenase and COX-2, as well as suppressing the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines. By targeting these inflammatory pathways, AKBA may help alleviate pain, reduce swelling, and improve joint function in individuals with arthritis.

Moreover, AKBA has shown potential in cancer research due to its ability to inhibit the growth and spread of cancer cells. It has demonstrated anti-proliferative effects against various cancer types, including breast, colon, prostate, and pancreatic cancers. The exact mechanisms underlying its anti-cancer effects are still being studied.

It's worth noting that while AKBA shows promise in preclinical studies, further research is needed to fully understand its therapeutic potential, optimal dosage, and long-term safety profile in humans. As with any natural product or supplement, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional before considering its use for specific medical conditions.

It was investigated in a preclinical study for its potential in preventing and treating non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), the most common chronic inflammatory liver disorder. The study involved thirty-six male Wistar rats, equally divided into prevention and treatment groups. In the prevention group, rats were given a high fructose diet (HFrD) and treated with AKBA for 6 weeks, while in the treatment group, rats were fed HFrD for 6 weeks and then given a normal diet with AKBA for 2 weeks. At the end of the study, various parameters were analyzed including liver tissues and serum levels of insulin, leptin, adiponectin, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β), interferon-gamma (INF-ϒ), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α). Additionally, the expression levels of genes related to the inflammasome complex and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPAR-ϒ), as well as the levels of phosphorylated and non-phosphorylated AMP-activated protein kinase alpha-1 (AMPK-α1) protein, were measured. The results showed that AKBA improved NAFLD-related serum parameters and inflammatory markers and suppressed PPAR-ϒ and inflammasome complex-related genes involved in hepatic steatosis in both groups. Additionally, AKBA prevented the reduction of the active and inactive forms of AMPK-α1 in the prevention group, which is a cellular energy regulator that helps suppress NAFLD progression. In conclusion, AKBA has a beneficial effect on preventing and avoiding the progression of NAFLD by preserving lipid metabolism, improving hepatic steatosis, and suppressing liver inflammation ¹⁾.