Farrerol reduces fat accumulation induced by citrate in Caenorhabditis elegans via DAF-16 and ameliorates obesity in a high-fat diet mouse model

Abnormal lipid accumulation contributes to the development of various metabolic disorders, including obesity, hepatic steatosis, and type 2 diabetes. Given the high global prevalence of these diseases and the lack of safe and effective therapeutic agents, there is an urgent need to identify novel lipid‑regulating compounds.

Farrerol, a major dihydroflavonoid isolated from the medicinal herb Rhododendron dauricum L., has been reported to exert anti‑inflammatory, antioxidant, and pro‑angiogenic activities. However, its specific role in regulating lipid metabolism, the underlying molecular mechanisms, and its efficacy and safety in vitro and in vivo remain unclear. This study aimed to systematically investigate the lipid‑regulatory effects of farrerol, elucidate its potential molecular mechanisms, and validate its anti‑lipidemic activity and safety in cellular and animal models, thereby providing a novel candidate drug and theoretical basis for the clinical treatment of lipid metabolism disorders.