Nanoencapsulated roselle anthocyanins extract extends lifespan in Western diet-fed male Drosophila via enhanced mitochondrial biogenesis

Long-term consumption of a Western diet (WD) increases the risks of obesity and age-related pathologies. Anthocyanins have shown potential in counteracting metabolic dysregulation associated with WD; however, their low stability and bioaccessibility hinder their ability to deliver optimal biological and pharmacological effects. Encapsulation presents significant advantages for enhancing the bioaccessibility of anthocyanins. This study evaluated nanoencapsulated roselle anthocyanins extract (Nano-RAE) in mitigating WD-induced metabolic disturbances and lifespan reduction in Drosophila melanogaster. Male flies were divided into three groups: control, WD, and WD + RAE (5 mg/mL Nano-RAE). Body weight, triglycerides (TG) levels, lifespan, locomotor function, intestinal integrity, oxidative stress markers, mitochondrial function, and related pathways were assessed. Nano-RAE significantly extended the maximum lifespan of WD-fed flies, from 61.1 to 81.9 days. It reduced TG levels, lipid accumulation, and oxidative stress while enhancing antioxidant enzyme activities. Additionally, Nano-RAE enhanced climbing ability, maintained intestinal barrier integrity, and restored mitochondrial function through enhanced mitochondrial biogenesis. These findings supported that Nano-RAE alleviates WD-induced metabolic dysfunction and aging by enhancing mitochondrial biogenesis, highlighting its potential as a dietary intervention for obesity and age-related disorders.