Prophylactic supplementation of microencapsulated Boswellia serrata and probiotic bacteria in metabolic syndrome rats

Metabolic syndrome (MeS) is a major health problem associated with the high prevalence of obesity, diabetes, hypertension and dyslipidemia. Boswellia serrata resin (BS) is an old remedy reputed by its rich antioxidant compounds. The present research aimed to assess the impact of microencapsulated BS if given in combination with probiotic bacteria (BAC) (Lactobacillus plantarum and Lactobacillus rhamnosus) which had anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities to control the metabolic disorders associated with MeS. Water extract of BS was prepared, total phenolic, total antioxidants and HPLC were analyzed. BS extract was microencapsulated by spray drier and the microcapsules were characterized. BAC were suspended in MRS, cultivated and microencapsulated by freeze drying. Rats were randomly assigned to 5 groups (8/gp). The 1st group was negative control receiving basic diet (C), the 2nd group was positive control fed on HFD, the 3rd group was fed on HFD + BS (400 mg/kg), the 4th group was fed on HFD + BAC (1 ml containing 1011 CFU), the 5th group was fed on HFD + BS + BAC. After 8 weeks animals were sacrificed, the collected serum was analyzed for different biochemical parameters. The body organs and body fat weights were estimated and histopathological and immunohistochemical examinations were evaluated. Results showed the ability of BS in controlling most of the parameters related to MeS and improvement of histopathology findings in organs.BS and BAC acted in synergy in this effect. In conclusion, microencapsulated BS or its combination with Probiotic bacteria may control MeS and both acted as symbiotic in augmenting the improvement of MeS intact model.