Berry Cactus Juice Concentrate: A Potential Modulator for Mitigating Metabolic Syndrome Markers in a High-Fat Diet Model

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a multifaceted disorder influenced by genetic and environmental factors. MetS is associated with obesity, dyslipidemia, hypertension, and hyperglycemia, among others. Recently, attention has turned to gut microbiota, a diverse microbial community in the gastrointestinal tract implicated in metabolic diseases, including MetS. Berry cactus ( Myrtillocactus geometrizans ) contains polyphenols, pectins, sterols, and betalains with hypoglycemic, hypolipemic, anti-inflammatory, and antiproliferative properties. This study investigates the impact of berry cactus juice concentrate (BJC) consumption on gut microbiota diversity and its modulation in a rat model of MetS development by a high-fat diet. Metabolic markers related to MetS and comprehensive analyses of microbial 16S rRNA gene were obtained after 140 days of treatment. Correlations between metabolic parameters, relevant microbial genera, and predicted functions and pathways were linked to MetS. BJC administration diminished the serum levels of fasting blood glucose, triglycerides, total cholesterol, leptin, insulin, and ileal fat percentage. Furthermore, BJC treatment was associated with alterations in the composition of the gut microbiota, favoring microbial phyla associated with metabolic health. Specifically, an association with the Parabacteroides genus was observed, suggesting potential mechanisms of action, including modulation of cellular pathways involved in fatty acid metabolism and promotion of the availability of berry cactus bioactive molecules. These findings highlight the potential of BJC consumption as a promising therapeutic approach for individuals with MetS or those at risk of its development, offering insights into the intricate interplay between dietary patterns, gut microbiota, and metabolic health.