Curcumin Derivative MTH-3 Regulates Palmitate-induced Insulin Resistance in Mouse Myoblast C2C12 Cells

Background/Aim: At present, there are no effective drugs for the treatment of insulin resistance. MTH-3, a curcumin derivative, exerts potent anti-cancer effects. The aim of the present study was to explore whether MTH-3 is capable of regulating palmitic acid (PA)-induced insulin resistance in C2C12 cells. Materials and Methods: Cell viability was examined using the MTT assay. C2C12 cells were treated with PA and evaluated for the production of oil droplets using an Oil Red O assay. Glucose uptake was analysed by the 2NBDG assay. Results: Treatment of cells with up to 500 mu M PA for 24 h or with 5 or 10 mu M MTH-3 had no effect on cell viability. PA induced production of oil droplets in C2C12 cells. After adding MTH-3, the quantity of oil droplets decreased significantly and glucose uptake recovered. Conclusion: MTH3 may become an efficient drug for the treatment of insulin resistance and associated diseases.

Automated summary

The study showed that MTH-3 could reduce oil droplet production induced by PA and promote glucose uptake, potentially becoming an effective drug for insulin resistance and related diseases.