Vanillin, ferulic acid and their 1:1 combination inhibit lipid accumulation in 3T3 L1 adipocytes and 3D spheroids

Background

Obesity is poised to be a major healthcare crisis worldwide. Genetic predisposition, inadequate activity, changing lifestyle and dietary patterns are cited as major causes for obesity. Even as a number of anti-obesity medications hit the market, there is still an ongoing quest to explore natural compounds, which are perceived as safer alternatives, for their anti-obesity activity. This study explores the anti-obesity potential of dietary polyphenols vanillin, ferulic acid and their combination using 3T3 L1 adipocytes and their 3D spheroids.

Methods

Studies were conducted on differentiated 3T3 L1 adipocytes and their 3D spheroids. Assays conducted on 3T3 L1 adipocytes include Oil red O, fluorescent Nile Red staining and triglyceride quantification to assess effect on lipid droplet accumulation. 2 NBDG was used to assess glucose uptake following drug treatment. 3D spheroid cultures were generated and triglyceride content was quantified. Effect of drug treatment on gene expression was analysed using qRT-PCR. Results of monolayer culture were compared with 3D spheroid models.

Results

Vanillin, ferulic acid and their combination lower intracellular triglyceride content and lipid droplet accumulation, inhibiting glucose uptake and conversion to triglycerides in 3T3 L1 adipocytes and their 3D spheroids. Compounds and their combination downregulated mRNA expression of C/EBP α and PPAR ɣ, FAS, ACC1, GLUT4, LPL, aP2. Vanillin treatment upregulated leptin mRNA expression.

Conclusion

Vanillin, ferulic acid and their combination lower lipid accumulation and glucose uptake in 3T3 L1 adipocytes and 3D spheroids.