Target molecules in 3T3-L1 adipocytes differentiation are regulated by maslinic acid, a natural triterpene from Olea europaea

Abstract

Background: Metabolic syndrome is a set of pathologies among which stand out the obesity, which is related to the lipid droplet accumulation and changes to cellular morphology regulated by several molecules and transcription factors. Maslinic acid (MA) is a natural product with demonstrated pharmacological functions including anti-inflammation, anti-tumor and anti-oxidation, among others.

Purpose: Here we report the effects of MA on the adipogenesis process in 3T3-L1 cells.

Methods: Cell viability, glucose uptake, cytoplasmic triglyceride droplets, triglycerides quantification, gene transcription factors such as peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) and adipocyte fatty acid-binding protein (aP2) and intracellular Ca²⁺ levels were determined in pre-adipocytes and adipocytes of 3T3-L1 cells.

Results: MA increased glucose uptake. MA also decreased lipid droplets and triglyceride levels, which is in concordance with the down-regulation of PPARγ and aP2. Finally, MA increased the intracellular Ca²⁺ concentration, which could also be involved in the demonstrated antiadipogenic effect of this triterpene.

Conclusion: MA has been demonstrated as potential antiadipogenic compound in 3T3-L1 cells.

Keywords: Adipogenesis; Glucose uptake; Maslinic acid; PPARγ and aP2 transcription factors; Triglycerides.