Effects of sinensetin on lipid metabolism in mature 3T3-L1 adipocytes

Abstract

Sinensetin is a rare polymethoxylated flavone found in certain citrus fruits. In this study, we investigated the effects of sinensetin on lipid metabolism in mature 3T3-L1 adipocytes. Sinensetin decreased the expression of sterol regulatory element-binding protein 1c (SREBP1c), suggesting its antiadipogeneic property via downreguation of SREBP1c. Also, sinensetin increased the phosphorylation of protein kinase A and hormone-sensitive lipase, indicating its lipolytic property via a cAMP-mediated signaling pathway. Moreover, sinensetin inhibited insulin-stimulated glucose uptake by decreasing the phosphorylation of insulin receptor substrate and Akt. Furthermore, sinensetin increased the phosphorylation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and acetyl-CoA carboxylase. It also upregulated mRNA expression of carnitine palmitoyltransferase-1a, suggesting that sinensetin enhances fatty acid β-oxidation through the AMPK pathway. Taken together, these results suggest that sinensetin may have potential as a natural agent for prevention/improvement of obesity.