The Ang III/AT2R Pathway Enhances Glucose Uptake by Improving GLUT1 Expression in 3T3-L1 Adipocytes

Angiotensin III (Ang III) is a heptapeptide derived from Ang II that has been confirmed as the preferred agonist of angiotensin II type 2 receptor (AT2R). Recent studies have revealed AT2R mainly exerts anti-inflammation effects. However, the effects of the Ang III/AT2R pathway on adipocytes remain unknown. Here, the effects of Ang III on glucose uptake were examined. The results showed that AT2R expression was upregulated during adipogenesis in 3T3-L1 preadipocytes, whereas AT1R expression was diminished. Also, Ang III (10 nM) significantly increased glucose uptake by 3T3-L1 adipocytes, which was blocked by PD123319, an AT2R blocker, but not by irbesartan, an AT1R blocker. Ang III also induced the expression of glucose transporter type 1 (GLUT1). These stimulatory effects were inhibited by pretreatment with PD123319, but not with irbesartan. Together, these results indicate that Ang III enhances glucose uptake by upregulating GLUT1 expression via AT2R.

Automated summary

The study revealed that Ang III enhances glucose uptake via upregulating GLUT1 expression through AT2R, while AT1R is not involved in this regulatory process.