L-Fucose Suppresses Lipid Accumulation via the AMPK Pathway in 3T3-L1 Adipocytes

L-fucose (Fuc), a monosaccharide with different biological functions in various organisms, exhibits potent anti-obesity effects in obese mice. However, the mechanisms underlying its anti-obesity effects remain largely unknown. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effects of Fuc on lipid metabo...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Tomohiko Nakao, Shiro Otaki, Yuri Kominami, Soichi Watanabe, Miho Ito, Teruki Aizawa, Yusuke Akahori, Hideki Ushio
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: MDPI AG 2023-01-01
Series:Nutrients
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Online Access:https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/15/3/503
Description
Summary:L-fucose (Fuc), a monosaccharide with different biological functions in various organisms, exhibits potent anti-obesity effects in obese mice. However, the mechanisms underlying its anti-obesity effects remain largely unknown. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effects of Fuc on lipid metabolism and insulin signaling in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. We found that Fuc treatment suppressed lipid accumulation during adipocyte differentiation. Additionally, Fuc treatment enhanced the phosphorylation of AMP-activated kinase (AMPK) and its downstream pathways, responsible for the regulation of fatty acid oxidation and lipolysis. Furthermore, Fuc-induced activation of the AMPK pathway was diminished by the AMPK inhibitor Compound C, and Fuc treatment considerably promoted glucose uptake via Akt activation in an insulin-resistant state. These findings provide a basis for elucidating the mechanism underlying the anti-obesity effect of Fuc, which may, in the future, be considered as a therapeutic compound for treating obesity and related diseases.
ISSN:2072-6643