Investigating Khat (Catha edulis Forsk) bioactive compounds for HMG-CoA Reductase inhibition and hyperlipidemia management

Background Hyperlipidemia is a major risk factor for cardiovascular diseases and other metabolic disorders. Plant-derived compounds are increasingly being explored for their potential lipid-lowering effects. This study investigated the antihyperlipidemic and HMG-CoA reductase inhibitory potential of lyophilized Catha edulis (khat) leaf extract through experimental and in silico approaches. Methods Fresh Catha edulis leaves were extracted using 70% ethanol, concentrated, and lyophilized. Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC–MS) was employed to identify phytochemicals, which were then subjected to molecular docking against HMG-CoA reductase. Male albino Wistar rats were induced with hyperlipidemia using a high-fat diet for 30 days and divided into seven groups (n=6). Groups received khat extract (100, 200, and 400 mg/kg), atorvastatin (10 mg/kg), or phentermine (10 mg/kg) orally for 60 days. Lipid profiles were measured, and data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA (p