Metabolic & Liver Support Study

University of Athens — Chios Mastic Gum Research

Executive Summary

A peer-reviewed study conducted by researchers at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens examined the effects of Chios Mastic gum on metabolic health and liver function in a diabetic animal model with fatty liver disease. Results showed improvements in glucose regulation, lipid metabolism, inflammatory markers, and liver histology — supporting the role of mastic gum as a bioactive compound for metabolic and liver support.

Study Information

Original Article Title:
Hypolipidemic, hepatoprotective and anti-inflammatory role of Chios Mastic gum in streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice with fatty liver disease

Journal:
Science & Atherosclerosis
Volume 7, Issue 4 (October–December 2016)

Research Institution:
Laboratory for Experimental Surgery and Surgical Research “N.S. Christeas”
Medical School of Athens
National and Kapodistrian University of Athens
Athens, Greece

Study Objective

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a prevalent chronic liver condition, particularly among individuals with diabetes. Chios Mastic gum (CMG) has been recognized for its antioxidant and lipid-modulating properties.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of CMG on:

• Metabolic markers
• Lipid profiles
• Inflammatory indicators
• Liver histology
  

using a controlled animal model of diabetes-associated fatty liver disease.

Methods Overview

Subjects:
37 male C57BL/6 mice with streptozotocin-induced diabetes

Study Duration:
8 weeks

Groups:

• Control group (n = 13)
• Low-dose mastic group (LdM): 20 mg/kg body weight (n = 12)
• High-dose mastic group (HdM): 500 mg/kg body weight (n = 12)

Measured Outcomes:

• Serum glucose and triglyceride levels
• Lipid profile
• Adiponectin, resistin, and interleukin-6 levels
• Histopathological liver examination

Measurements were taken at baseline, 4 weeks, and at the conclusion of the study.

Key Findings

Metabolic & Lipid Effects

• After 4 weeks, both low- and high-dose mastic groups showed reductions in serum glucose and triglyceride levels.
• By the end of the study, the low-dose group demonstrated significantly improved glucose regulation and lipid profiles compared to the control group.
  

Inflammatory Markers

• Changes were observed in adiponectin and inflammatory cytokines, suggesting a modulatory effect on inflammatory processes associated with metabolic dysfunction.
  

Liver Health

• Histological analysis indicated improved liver structure in mastic-treated groups, supporting a hepatoprotective effect.
  

Study Conclusions

The findings suggest that Chios Mastic gum may support:

• Improved glucose metabolism
• Healthier lipid profiles
• Reduced inflammatory activity
• Protection against fatty liver changes

in a diabetic animal model.

Researchers concluded that mastic gum demonstrates potential as a bioactive compound for metabolic and liver support, particularly in conditions associated with impaired glucose regulation and fatty liver disease.

Why This Research Matters

This study contributes to a growing body of evidence supporting the use of naturally derived bioactive compounds in supporting metabolic balance and liver health. Its findings are relevant to ongoing research into formulations that combine botanical compounds with mineral-based approaches to systemic wellness.

Citation

Tzani A, Bletsa E, Doulamis IP, et al.
Hypolipidemic, hepatoprotective and anti-inflammatory role of Chios Mastic gum in streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice with fatty liver disease.
Science & Atherosclerosis. 2016;7:161–173.