Trigonelline induces browning in3T3-L1white adipocytes

Trigonelline, a major alkaloid component of fenugreek, has been demonstrated to have several biological activities, including antidiabetic and anticancer effects. This study aimed to examine the possible application of trigonelline as an anti-obesity compound based on an investigation of its enhancement of lipid catabolism and induction of browning in white adipocytes. Trigonelline induces browning of 3T3-L1 white adipocytes by enhancing the expressions of brown-fat signature proteins and genes as well as beige-specific genes, includingCd137,Cited1,Tbx1, andTmem26. Trigonelline also improves lipid metabolism in white adipocytes by decreasing adipogenesis and lipogenesis as well as promotes lipolysis and fatty acid oxidation. Moreover, trigonelline increases the expression ofCox4,Nrf1, andTfamgenes that are responsible for mitochondrial biogenesis. Mechanistic studies revealed that the browning effect of trigonelline in 3T3-L1 white adipocytes is mediated by activating beta 3-AR and inhibiting PDE4, thereby stimulating the p38 MAPK/ATF-2 signaling pathway. Considering its high bioavailability in humans and the results of this study, trigonelline may have potential as an anti-obesity compound.

Automated summary

Trigonelline, a major alkaloid component of fenugreek, has potential as an anti-obesity compound by inducing browning of white adipocytes and improving lipid metabolism through regulation of gene and protein expression, as well as mitochondrial biogenesis pathways.