Recent advances in understanding the anti-obesity activity of anthocyanins and their biosynthesis in microorganisms

Abstract Background Obesity is a serious health problem and the cause for social and economic burdens. Currently, there is still no cure for obesity, while the investment of time and money for one is huge. Recent years, the possibility of developing natural products from fruits and vegetables with bioactivities into anti-disease agents has become a hot spot in research. Thus, anthocyanins are increasingly causing more attention, as they have been proved to show anti-obesity effects. Furthermore, recent advances in biosynthesis of anthocyanins in microorganisms have illustrated a promising way in producing these valuable compounds in large scales. Scope and approach Anthocyanins have great importance in developing a cure for obesity and biosynthesis in microorganisms has high potential in their massive production. This review therefore highlights the recent advances in the anti-obesity effects of anthocyanins and their biosynthesis in microorganisms. We have comprehensively discussed the molecular mechanisms involved in the anti-obesity effects of anthocyanins, the physicochemical and physiological properties of anthocyanins, the suitability of anthocyanins in anti-obesity therapies as well as the possibility of biosynthesis in microorganisms in future application. Key findings and conclusions Anthocyanins have shown anti-obesity effects through multiple mechanisms, and biosynthesis of anthocyanins in microorganisms could have extensive applications. Inhibiting lipid absorption, regulating lipid metabolism, increasing energy expenditure, suppressing food intake and regulating gut microbiota are major mechanisms involved. Moreover, anthocyanins are promising candidates in developing anti-obesity therapies. Further studies are required to explore therapeutic uses of anthocyanins in treating obesity and application of biosynthesis of anthocyanins in microorganisms in industries.