Fermented Camellia sinensis, Fu Zhuan Tea, regulates hyperlipidemia and transcription factors involved in lipid catabolism

Emerging evidence supports health-promoting properties of post-fermented Chinese Brick Tea. Fu Zhuan Tea, fermented with the fungus, Erotium cristatum, contains a unique phytochemical profile attributed to its unique method of processing. Fu Zhuan Tea has been shown to activate pancreatic enzymes and regulate blood lipids in laboratory models. Regulation of blood lipid levels by Fu Zhuan Tea consumption was examined in an observational pilot study of volunteers with elevated LDL cholesterol that were not taking any prescription lipid lowering medications. Significant changes in blood lipids were detected after 120 days of daily consumption. Fu Zhuan Tea fractionation led to the investigation of six compounds for regulation of transcription factors involved in lipid metabolism, including Farnesoid X receptor (FXR), Liver X-activated Receptor (LXR) and two isoforms of the Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptors (PPARγ and PPARδ). Reporter gene assays with liver cells revealed dose dependent differences in regulation of transcription factor activation. These data reveal potential therapeutic efficacy and candidate molecular targets for Fu Zhuan Tea, and provide rationale for chemical characterization of bioactive fractions and investigation of therapeutic efficacy in cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes.

► Bioactive compounds in Fu Zhuan Tea for regulation of blood lipids.
► Fuzhuan tea transcription factor activation in liver cells.
► Fu Zhuan Tea therapeutic potential for hyperlipidemia and type II Diabetes.