Biotransformation effects on anti lipogenic activity of citrus extracts

• Biotransformation modified flavonoids profile of a citrus peel extract.
• Biotransformed peel extract was a good source of flavonoids found in low amounts.
• Citrus flavonoid extract from industrial residue had anti-lipogenic activity.
• Biotransformed citrus peel extract caused lipolysis in mouse adipocyte cell line.

Citrus peel is a good source of flavonoids, with higher content in relation to pulp. This study proposed to investigate the anti-lipogenic potential of a newly developed citrus flavonoids extract, obtained from citrus industrial residue, bioprocessed in order to generate a commercial source of some flavonoids naturally found in low quantity. The results showed that the citrus peel extract obtained after biotransformation was a good source of hesperitin and naringenin, flavonoids that has no source for production on a large scale, as in supplements or medicines. Still, the results showed that all extracts could be used in obesity treatment. The original extract, “In Natura”, would be useful to reduce new adipocytes synthesis and lipid accumulation, and the extract bioprocessed, “Biotransformed” extract could be used to induce lipolysis on fat tissue.