L-leucine supplementation worsens the adiposity of already obese rats by promoting a hypothalamic pattern of gene expression that favors fat accumulation

Nutrients. 2014 Apr 2;6(4):1364-73. doi: 10.3390/nu6041364.

Abstract

Several studies showed that l-leucine supplementation reduces adiposity when provided before the onset of obesity. We studied rats that were exposed to a high-fat diet (HFD) for 10 weeks before they started to receive l-leucine supplementation. Fat mass was increased in l-leucine-supplemented rats consuming the HFD. Accordingly, l-leucine produced a hypothalamic pattern of gene expression that favors fat accumulation. In conclusion, l-leucine supplementation worsened the adiposity of rats previously exposed to HFD possibly by central mechanisms.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adiposity / drug effects*
  • Animals
  • Diet, High-Fat / adverse effects*
  • Dietary Supplements*
  • Energy Intake
  • Gene Expression
  • Hypothalamus / metabolism*
  • Leucine / administration & dosage
  • Leucine / adverse effects*
  • Male
  • Obesity / pathology*
  • Rats
  • Rats, Wistar

Substances

  • Leucine