Epicatechin and β-Glucan from Whole Highland Barley Grain Synergistic Benefit on Attenuating Hyperglycemia via Improving Hepatic Glucose Metabolism in Diabetic C57BL/6J Mice

Our previous study proved that epicatechin (EC) and β-glucan (BG) from whole-grain highland barley synergistically modulate glucose metabolism in insulin-resistant HepG2 cells. However, the main target and the mechanism underlying the modulation of glucose metabolism in vivo remain largely unknown. In this study, cell transfection assay and microscale thermophoresis analysis revealed that EC and BG could directly bind to the insulin receptor (IR) and mammalian receptor for rapamycin (mTOR), respectively. Molecular dynamic analysis indicated that the key amino acids of binding sites were Asp, Met, Val, Lys, Ser, and Tys. EC supplementation upregulated the IRS-1/PI3K/Akt pathway, while BG upregulated the mTOR/Akt pathway. Notably, supplementation with EC + BG significantly increased Akt and glucose transporter type 4 (GLUT4) protein expressions, while decreasing glycogen synthase kinase 3β (GSK-3β) expression in liver cells as compared to the individual effects of EC and BG, indicating their synergistic effect on improving hepatic glucose uptake and glycogen synthesis. Consistently, supplementation with EC + BG significantly decreased blood glucose levels and improved oral glucose tolerance compared to EC and BG. Therefore, combined supplementation with EC and BG may bind to corresponding receptors, targeting synergistic activation of Akt expression, leading to the improvement of hepatic glucose metabolism and thereby ameliorating hyperglycemia in vivo.

PACAP ameliorates obesity-induced insulin resistance through FAIM/Rictor/AKT axis

Obesity and obesity-related insulin resistance have been a research hotspot. Pituitary adenylate cyclase activating polypeptide (PACAP) has emerged as playing a significant role in energy metabolism, holding promising potential for attenuating insulin resistance. However, the precise mechanism is not fully understood. Palmitic acid and a high-fat diet (HFD) were used to establish insulin resistance model in Alpha mouse liver 12 cell line and C57BL/6 mice, respectively. Subsequently, we assessed the effects of PACAP both in vivo and in vitro. Lentivirus vectors were used to explore the signaling pathway through which PACAP may ameliorate insulin resistance. PACAP was found to selectively bind to the PACAP type I receptor receptor and ameliorate insulin resistance, which was characterized by increased glycogen synthesis and the suppression of gluconeogenesis in the insulin-resistant cell model and HFD-fed mice. These effects were linked to the activation of the Fas apoptotic inhibitory molecule/rapamycin-insensitive companion of mammalian target of rapamycin/RAC-alpha serine/threonine-protein kinase (FAIM/Rictor/AKT) axis. Furthermore, PACAP ameliorated insulin resistance by increasing solute carrier family 2, facilitated glucose transporter members 2/4 and inhibiting gluconeogenesis-related proteins glucose 6-phosphatase catalytic subunit 1 and phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase 2 expression. Meanwhile, the phosphorylation of hepatic AKT/glycogen synthase kinase 3β was promoted both in vivo and in vitro by PACAP. Additionally, PACAP treatment decreased body weight, food intake and blood glucose levels in obese mice. Our study shows that PACAP ameliorated insulin resistance through the FAIM/Rictor/AKT axis, presenting it as a promising drug candidate for the treatment of obesity-related insulin resistance.

The Antioxidant Properties, Metabolism, Application and Mechanism of Ferulic Acid in Medicine, Food, Cosmetics, Livestock and Poultry

Ferulic acid is a ubiquitous ingredient in cereals, vegetables, fruits and Chinese herbal medicines. Due to the ferulic phenolic nucleus coupled to an extended side chain, it readily forms a resonant-stable phenoxy radical, which explains its potent antioxidant potential. In addition, it also plays an important role in anti-cancer, pro-angiogenesis, anti-thrombosis, neuroprotection, food preservation, anti-aging, and improving the antioxidant performance of livestock and poultry. This review provides a comprehensive summary of the structure, mechanism of antioxidation, application status, molecular mechanism of pharmacological activity, existing problems, and application prospects of ferulic acid and its derivatives. The aim is to establish a theoretical foundation for the utilization of ferulic acid in medicine, food, cosmetics, livestock, and poultry.

Discovery of Selective Proteolysis-Targeting Chimera Degraders Targeting PTP1B as Long-Term Hypoglycemic Agents

PTP1B, a promising target for insulin sensitizers in type 2 diabetes treatment, can be effectively degraded using proteolysis-targeting chimera (PROTAC). This approach offers potential for long-acting antidiabetic agents. We report potent bifunctional PROTACs targeting PTP1B through the E3 ubiquitin ligase cereblon. Western blot analysis showed significant PTP1B degradation by PROTACs at concentrations from 5 nM to 5 μM after 48 h. Evaluation of five highly potent PROTACs revealed compound 75 with a longer PEG linker (23 atoms), displaying remarkable degradation activity after 48 and 72 h, with DC50 values of 250 nM and 50 nM, respectively. Compound 75 induced selective degradation of PTP1B, requiring engagement with both the target protein and CRBN E3 ligase, in a ubiquitination and proteasome-dependent manner. It significantly reduced blood glucose AUC0-2h to 29% in an oral glucose tolerance test and activated the IRS-1/PI3K/Akt signaling pathway in HepG2 cells, showing promise for long-term antidiabetic therapy.

Antihyperglycemic effects of triterpenoid saponins from the seeds of Aesculus chinensis Bge

Six undescribed triterpenoid saponins, namely aescuchinosides A-F, along with seven known triterpenoid saponins, were isolated from the seeds of Aesculus chinensis. Barrigenol-like triterpenoids (BATs) constitute these saponins. Protoaescigenin serves as their aglycone, with various oxygen-containing groups, including acetyl, isobutyryl, tigloyl, and angeloyl groups situated at C-21, C-22, and C-28. Various techniques, including 1D and 2D-NMR spectroscopy, high-resolution mass spectrometry, and acid hydrolysis, were employed to determine the structures of these compounds. The antihyperglycemic effects of the isolated compounds were examined in insulin -resistant HepG2 cells induced by palmitic acid treatment. At a concentration of 6 μM, aesculinoside F exhibited a significant increase in glucose consumption. In addition, aesculinoside F demonstrated the potential to improve insulin resistant by upregulating the PI3K/AKT pathway. These results indicate that the seeds of A.chinensis hold promising potential for preventing insulin resistant related disease.

Whole-grain highland barley premade biscuit prepared by hot-extrusion 3D printing: Printability and nutritional assessment

In this study, to explore the possibility of applying whole-grain highland barley (HB) in functional food, HB premade biscuit was created by hot-extrusion 3D printing (HEP) for the first time, and its printability and nutritional functions were evaluated. The rheology results showed 20% (w/w) HB suspension with 9% corn oil addition had better printability due to the formation of a structure with higher elasticity and stronger resistance to deformation. Moreover, the obtained premade biscuit had lower predicted glycemic index (pGI) and starch digestibility. Meanwhile, in vivo experiment results showed it could affect the glycolipid metabolism, ameliorate the high fat diet (HFD)-induced metabolic disorders and maintain the balance of the gut microbial ecology. This could be attributed to the decrease in Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio and the proliferation of propionate-producing probiotics, especially Veilonella, Weissella and Desulfovibrio. Overall, this study could provide basic data and innovative approaches to prepare nutritional whole-grain foods.

Hypoglycemic effect and intestinal transport of phenolics-rich extract from digested mulberry leaves in Caco-2/insulin-resistant HepG2 co-culture model

Phenolics of mulberry (Morus alba L.) leaves (MLs) have potential anti-diabetic effects, but they may be chemically modified during gastrointestinal digestion so affect their biological activity. In this study, an in vitro digestion model coupled with Caco-2 monolayer and Caco-2/insulin-resistant HepG2 coculture model were used to study the transport and hypoglycemic effects of phenolics in raw MLs (U-MLs) and solid-fermented MLs (F-MLs). The results of LC-MS/MS analysis showed that the Papp (apparent permeability coefficient, 10-6cm/s) of phenolics in digested MLs ranged from 0.002 ± 0.00 (quercetin 3-O-glucoside) to 60.19 ± 0.67 (ferulic acid), indicating higher phenolic acids absorbability and poor flavonoids absorbability. The Papp values of phenolic extracts of F-MLs in Caco-2 monolayer were significantly higher (p > 0.05) than that of U-MLs. Digested phenolic extracts inhibited the activities of sucrase (60.13 ± 2.03 %) and maltase (82.35 ± 0.78 %) and decreased 9.28 ± 0.84 % of glucose uptake in Caco-2 monolayer. Furthermore, a decrease in the mRNA expression of glucose transporters SGLT1 (0.64 ± 0.18), GLUT2 (0.14 ± 0.02) and the sucrase-isomaltase (0.59 ± 0.00) was observed. In Caco-2/insulin-resistant HepG2 co-culture model, phenolic extracts regulated glucose metabolism by up-regulating the mRNA expressions of IRS1 (9.32-fold), Akt (17.07-fold) and GYS2 (1.5-fold), and down-regulating the GSK-3β (0.22-fold), PEPCK (0.49-fold) and FOXO1 (0.10-fold) mRNA levels. Both U-MLs and F-MLs could improve glucose metabolism, and the partial least squares (PLS) analysis showed that luteoforol and p-coumaric acid were the primary phenolics that strongly correlated with the hypoglycemic ability of MLs. Results suggested that phenolics of MLs can be used as dietary supplements to regulate glucose metabolism.

Modulation Effects of Sargassum pallidum Extract on Hyperglycemia and Hyperlipidemia in Type 2 Diabetic Mice

The aim of this study was to investigate the antidiabetic effect of the extract from Sargassum pallidum (SPPE) on type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) mice. SPPE treatment alleviated hyperglycemia, insulin resistance (IR), liver and pancreatic tissue damage, hyperlipidemia and hepatic oxidative stress resulting from T2DM. SPPE reversed phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase (PEPCK) and hexokinase (HK) activities to improve gluconeogenesis and glycogen storage in the liver. Furthermore, SPPE modulated glucose metabolism by regulating the levels of mRNA expression involving the PI3K/Akt/FOXO1/G6pase/GLUT2 pathway and could inhibit fatty acid synthesis by reducing the gene expression levels of fatty acid synthase (FAS) and acetyl-CoA carboxylase-1 (ACC-1). A 16 sRNA analysis indicated that SPPE treatment also reversed gut dysbiosis by increasing the abundance of beneficial bacteria (Bacteroides and Lactobacillus) and suppressing the proliferation of harmful bacteria (Enterococcus and Helicobacter). Untargeted metabolomics results indicated that histidine metabolism, nicotinate and nicotinamide metabolism and fatty acid biosynthesis were significantly influenced by SPPE. Thus, SPPE may be applied as an effective dietary supplement or drug in the management of T2DM.

Based on network pharmacology to explore the effect and mechanism of Yipibushen decoction in improving obese type 2 diabetes mellitus with oligoasthenotspermia

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

A traditional Chinese medicine experience compound known as Yipibushen (YPBS) decoction stimulates qi and nourishes yin, stimulates the kidney and solid essence, dissolves phlegm and eliminates stasis. YPBS decoction has proven to be successful in treating obese type 2 diabetes mellitus with oligoasthenotspermia in clinical settings. Nevertheless, the pharmacological mechanism is not understood.

AIM OF THE STUDY

Investigating the mechanism of action of YPBS decoction in enhancing the obese type 2 diabetes mellitus with oligoasthenotspermia involved network pharmacology and animal validation techniques.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

The YPBS Decoction' active components were found in the TCMSP database and their targets were identified using UniProtKB. Additionally, targets for the obese type 2 diabetes mellitus with oligoasthenotspermia were found in the GeneCard, DisGeNet, TTD and OMIM databases. The intersection of active ingredients, the obese type 2 diabetes mellitus with oligoasthenotspermia was chosen as the intersection target. The protein-protein interaction (PPI) network of the intersection target was built with the aid of Cytoscape 3.9.1, the core target of PPI was obtained through software analysis in R-project, GO enrichment and KEGG enrichment analysis was carried out on the core target. Finally, animal experiments were used to verify the intersection target.

RESULTS

The research revealed 74 intersection targets of YPBS decoction active ingredients in the obese type 2 diabetes mellitus with oligoasthenotspermia. There were also 18 PPI core targets, GO enrichment analysis of PPI core targets involving response to oxidative stress, membrane raft, DNA-binding transcription regulator complex and other biological processes; KEGG involving endocrine resistance, PI3K/AKT signaling pathway, apoptosis and other signal pathways. In the obese type 2 diabetes mellitus with oligoasthenotspermia mice, animal studies have shown that YPBS decoction group could decrease blood glucose levels and improve insulin resistance; improve testicular function, enhance sperm count, sperm motility, sperm viability, and decrease the malformation rate. It could increase the levels of T-SOD and GSH-Px, and decrease the MDA level. In addition to this, it could improve the amount of testosterone hormone, and enhance the expression of PI3K, p-AKT and Bcl-2.

CONCLUSION

By controlling the degree of oxidative stress and the PI3K/AKT/Bcl-2 pathway, YPBS decoction may enhance the obese type 2 diabetes mellitus with Oligoasthenotspermia, provide a scientific basis for clinical diagnosis and therapy.

Pathophysiology of diabetic hepatopathy and molecular mechanisms underlying the hepatoprotective effects of phytochemicals

Patients with diabetes are at risk for liver disorders including glycogen hepatopathy, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, cirrhosis, and hepatic fibrosis. The pathophysiological mechanisms behind diabetic hepatopathy are complex, some of them include fatty acid accumulation, increased reactive oxygen species, increased advanced glycation end-products, hyperactivity of polyol pathways, increased apoptosis and necrosis, and promotion of fibrosis. A growing number of studies have shown that herbal extracts and their active phytochemicals have antihyperglycemic properties and beneficial effects on diabetic complications. The current review, for the first time, focused on herbal agents that showed beneficial effects on diabetic hepatopathy. For example, animal studies have shown that Moringa oleifera and Morus alba improve liver function in both type-1 and type-2 diabetes. Also, evidence from clinical trials suggests that Boswellia serrata, Juglans regia, Melissa officinalis, Portulaca oleracea, Silybum marianum, Talapotaka Churna, and Urtica dioica reduce serum liver enzymes in diabetic patients. The main active ingredient of these plants to protect the liver seems to be phenolic compounds such as niazirin, chlorogenic acid, resveratrol, etc. Mechanisms responsible for the hepatoprotective activity of herbal agents include improving glucose metabolism, restoring adipokines levels, antioxidant defense, and anti-inflammatory activity. Several signaling pathways are involved in hepatoprotective effects of herbal agents in diabetes, such as phosphoinositide 3-kinase, adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase, mitogen-activated protein kinase, and c-Jun NH2-terminal kinase.

Fagopyrum tataricum ethanol extract ameliorates symptoms of hyperglycemia by regulating gut microbiota in type 2 diabetes mellitus mice

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is typically accompanied by sudden weight loss, dyslipidemia-related indicators, decreased insulin sensitivity, and altered gut microbial communities. Fagopyrum tataricum possesses many biological activities, such as antioxidant, hypolipidemic, and hypotensive activities. However, only a few studies have attempted to elucidate the regulatory effects of F. tataricum ethanol extract (FTE) on intestinal microbial communities and its potential relationships with T2DM. In this study, we established a T2DM mouse model and investigated the regulatory effects of FTE on hyperglycemia symptoms and intestinal microbial communities. FTE intervention significantly improved the levels of fasting blood glucose, the area under the curve of oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), and glycosylated serum protein, as well as pancreas islet function correlation index. In addition, FTE effectively improved hepatic and cecum injuries and insulin secretion due to T2DM. It was also revealed that the potential hypoglycemic mechanism of FTE was involved in the regulation of protein kinase B (AKT-1) and glucose transporter 2 (GLUT-2). Furthermore, compared with the Model group, the FTE-H intervention exhibited a significantly decreased ratio of Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes at the phylum level, reduced relative abundance of pernicious bacteria at the genus level, such as Desulfovibrio, Oscillibacter, Blautia, Parabacteroides, and Erysipelatoclostridium, and ameliorated inflammatory response and insulin resistance. Moreover, the correlation between gut microbiota and hypoglycemic indicators was predicted. The results showed that Lachnoclostridium, Lactobacillus, Oscillibacter, Bilophila, and Roseburia have the potential to be used as bacterial markers for T2DM. In conclusion, our research showed that FTE alleviates hyperglycemia symptoms by regulating the expression of AKT-1 and GLUT-2, as well as intestinal microbial communities in T2DM mice.

Yao-Shan of traditional Chinese medicine: an old story for metabolic health

Type 2 diabetes mellitus, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), cardio-cerebrovascular diseases (CCVDs), hyperuricemia and gout, and metabolic-related sexual dysfunction are metabolic diseases that affect human health in modern society. Scientists have made great efforts to investigate metabolic diseases using cell models in vitro or animal models in the past. However, the findings from cells or animals are difficult to translate into clinical applications due to factors such as the in vitro and in vivo differences; the differences in anatomy, physiology, and genetics between humans and animals; and the differences in microbiome-host interaction. The Chinese have extensively used the medicated diet of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) (also named as Yao-Shan of TCM, Chinese Yao-Shan et al.) to maintain or improve cardiometabolic health for more than 2,200 years. These ancient classic diets of TCM are essential summaries of long-term life and clinical practices. Over the past 5 years, our group has made every effort to collect and sort out the classic Yao-Shan of TCM from the ancient TCM literature since Spring and Autumn and Warring States Period, especially these are involved in the prevention and treatment of metabolic diseases, such as diabetes, NAFLD, CCVDs, hyperuricemia and gout, and sexual dysfunction. Here, we summarized and discussed the classic Yao-Shan of TCM for metabolic diseases according to the time recorded in the ancient literature, and revised the Latin names of the raw materials in these Yao-Shan of TCM. Moreover, the modern medicine evidences of some Yao-Shan of TCM on metabolic diseases have also been summarized and emphasized in here. However, the exact composition (in terms of ratios), preparation process, and dosage of many Yao-Shan are not standardized, and their main active ingredients are vague. Uncovering the mystery of Yao-Shan of TCM through modern biological and chemical strategies will help us open a door, which is ancient but now looks new, to modulate metabolic homeostasis and diseases.

Roles of protein post-translational modifications in glucose and lipid metabolism: mechanisms and perspectives

The metabolism of glucose and lipids is essential for energy production in the body, and dysregulation of the metabolic pathways of these molecules is implicated in various acute and chronic diseases, such as type 2 diabetes, Alzheimer's disease, atherosclerosis (AS), obesity, tumor, and sepsis. Post-translational modifications (PTMs) of proteins, which involve the addition or removal of covalent functional groups, play a crucial role in regulating protein structure, localization function, and activity. Common PTMs include phosphorylation, acetylation, ubiquitination, methylation, and glycosylation. Emerging evidence indicates that PTMs are significant in modulating glucose and lipid metabolism by modifying key enzymes or proteins. In this review, we summarize the current understanding of the role and regulatory mechanisms of PTMs in glucose and lipid metabolism, with a focus on their involvement in disease progression associated with aberrant metabolism. Furthermore, we discuss the future prospects of PTMs, highlighting their potential for gaining deeper insights into glucose and lipid metabolism and related diseases.

Involvement of intestinal flora and miRNA into the mechanism of coarse grains improving type 2 diabetes: an overview

The prevalence of type 2 diabetes has been growing at an increasing rate worldwide. Dietary therapy is probably the easiest and least expensive method to prevent and treat diabetes. Previous studies have reported that coarse grains have anti-diabetic effects. Although considerable efforts have been made on the anti-diabetic function of different grains, the mechanisms of coarse grains on type 2 diabetes have not been systematically compared and summarized so far. Intestinal flora, reported as the main 'organ' of action underlying coarse grains, is an important factor in the alleviation of type 2 diabetes by coarse grains. Furthermore, microRNA (miRNA), as a new disease marker and 'dark nutrient', plays a likely influential role in cross-border communication among coarse grains, intestinal flora, and hosts. Given this context, this article reviews several possible mechanisms for the role of coarse grains on diabetes, incorporating resistance to inflammation and oxidative stress, repair of insulin signaling and β-cell dysfunction, and highlights the regulation of intestinal flora disorders and miRNAs expression, along with some novel insights. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.

Whole Grain Proso Millet (Panicum miliaceum L.) Attenuates Hyperglycemia in Type 2 Diabetic Mice: Involvement of miRNA Profile

This work aimed to investigate the hypoglycemic effects and underlying mechanism of whole grain proso millet (Panicum miliaceum L.; WPM) on type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The results showed that WPM supplementation significantly reduced fasting blood glucose (FBG) and serum lipid levels in T2DM mice induced by a high-fat diet (HFD) combined with streptozotocin (STZ), with improved glucose tolerance, liver and kidney injury, and insulin resistance. In addition, WPM significantly inhibited the expression of gluconeogenesis-related genes G6pase, Pepck, Foxo1, and Pgc-1α. Further study by miRNA high-throughput sequencing revealed that WPM supplementation mainly altered the liver miRNA expression profile of T2DM mice by increasing the expression of miR-144-3p_R-1 and miR-423-5p, reducing the expression of miR-22-5p_R-1 and miR-30a-3p. GO and KEGG analyses showed that the target genes of these miRNAs were mainly enriched in the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. WPM supplementation significantly increased the level of PI3K, p-AKT, and GSK3β in the liver of T2DM mice. Taken together, WPM exerts antidiabetic effects by improving the miRNA profile and activating the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway to inhibit gluconeogenesis. This study implies that PM can act as a dietary supplement to attenuate T2DM.

Steamed Multigrain Bread Prepared from Dough Fermented with Lactic Acid Bacteria and Its Effect on Type 2 Diabetes

Multigrain products can prevent the occurrence of chronic noninfectious diseases such as hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia. In this study, multigrain dough fermented by lactic acid bacteria (LAB) was used for the preparation of good-quality steamed multigrain bread, and its effects on type 2 diabetes were investigated. The results showed that the multigrain dough fermented with LAB significantly enhanced the specific volume, texture, and nutritional value of the steamed bread. The steamed multigrain bread had a low glycemic index and was found to increase liver glycogen and reduce triglyceride and insulin levels, while improving oral glucose tolerance and blood lipid levels in diabetic mice. The steamed multigrain bread made from dough fermented with LAB had comparable effects on type 2 diabetes to steamed multigrain bread prepared from dough fermented without LAB. In conclusion, multigrain dough fermentation with LAB improved the quality of the steamed bread while preserving its original efficacy. These findings provide a novel approach to the production of functional commercial foods.

Heat-treated foxtail millet protein delayed the development of pre-diabetes to diabetes in mice by altering gut microbiota and metabolomic profiles

Millet protein has gained much attention for its beneficial effects in mitigating metabolic diseases. However, most individuals pass through a prediabetic phase before developing full-blown diabetes, and whether millet protein has hypoglycemic effects on prediabetic mice remains unclear. In the present study, heat-treated foxtail millet protein (HMP) supplementation significantly decreased fasting blood glucose and serum insulin levels, alleviated insulin resistance, and improved impaired glucose tolerance in prediabetic mice. In addition, HMP altered the intestinal flora composition, as evidenced by the reduction in the abundance of Dubosiella and Marvinbryantia and the increase in the content of Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, and norank_f_Erysipelotrichaceae. Moreover, HMP supplementation dramatically regulated the levels of serum metabolites (i.e., LysoPCs, 11,14,17-eicosatrienoic acid, and sphingosine) and related metabolic pathways, such as sphingolipid metabolism and pantothenate and CoA biosynthesis. In conclusion, the improvement of gut microbiota and serum metabolic profiles was related to the hypoglycemic potential of HMP in prediabetes.

Root-Extracted lignanamides from Limonium gmelinii (Willd.) Kuntze with a potential PTP1B inhibitory activity by regulating PI3K/AKT signaling pathway

The phytochemical study of Limonium gmelinii roots resulted in the isolation of five lignanamides (1-5). Among them, limoniumins J, K, and M (1, 2, and 4) are undescribed compounds, limoniumin L (3) is a new naturally occurring lignanamide, and limoniumin B (5) is a known compound which showed PTP1B inhibition activity with an IC₅₀ value of 5.05 ± 2.44 μM in our previous work. Spectroscopic data analysis, including 1D and 2D NMR and HRESIMS experiments, established the chemical structures of limoniumins J - M (1-4). Compounds 1-4 showed PTP1B inhibition activity, among which compound 3 showed the most potent PTP1B inhibition with an IC₅₀ value of 2.07 ± 0.05 μM. Compounds 3 and 5 could significantly increase cellular glucose consumption and glucose uptake in L6 muscle cells and could synergize with insulin to promote glucose consumption and glucose uptake in a concentration-dependent manner. The treatment of compound 3 also promoted glycogen synthesis in skeletal muscle cells. Western blot analysis demonstrated that the good hypoglycemic effect of compounds 3 and 5 was achieved by activating PI3K/AKT signaling pathway to promote glucose consumption, glucose uptake, and glycogen synthesis. Furthermore, studies on molecular docking revealed the potent interactions between these bioactive substances and the PTP1B protein.

Integration of microRNA and mRNA analyses depicts the potential roles of Momordica charantia saponin administration in insulin resistance of juvenile common carp (Cyprinus carpio) fed with a high-starch diet

Background: The regulation of target gene mRNA mediated by microRNA may play an important role in glucose metabolism in fish. Previous research findings of our research group revealed that Momordica charantia saponin (MS) administration in a high-starch diet could improve insulin resistance of common carp through renovating insulin signaling pathways, whose fundamental mechanisms have remained unknown by far. To reveal this potential mechanism, we aimed to investigate the difference in miRNA and mRNA expression profiles between common carp fed with high-starch diets containing MS (HS_MS1 and HS_MS2) and common carp fed with high-starch (HS) diets. Results: Through miRNA deep-sequencing, 10 significantly differentially expressed miRNAs in HC and HS_MS1, including one upregulated and nine downregulated miRNAs, were identified, whereas 10 significantly differentially expressed miRNAs in HC and HS_MS2, including four upregulated and six downregulated miRNAs, were identified. These miRNAs may not only be involved in the regulation of insulin signaling pathways and insulin resistance in common carp but also be the markers for liver insulin resistance in MS therapy for the remission of insulin resistance. This study identified 10 potential known miRNAs, namely, ccr-miR-10b, ccr-miR-122, ccr-miR-143, ccr-miR-146a, ccr-miR-155, ccr-miR-16c, ccr-miR-200a, ccr-miR-29a, ccr-miR-34, and ccr-miR-375, as candidates participating in modulating the liver insulin resistance. According to the biopathway enrichment analysis of the 252 target genes using the KEGG classical biopathway database, the relative expression levels of gsk3bb, pik3r1, and pik3r3b were analyzed using RNA-seq. Compared to the HC group, a significant decrease in the relative expression levels of pik3r1 and pik3r3b was observed in HS_MS1 and HS_MS2 groups (p < 0.05). This study raised a presumption of the presence of ccr-miR-29a targeting pik3r1 or ccr-miR-143 targeting pik3r3 playing likely roles in Momordica charantia saponins remitting the liver insulin resistance. Conclusion: The findings will further deepen the understanding of the carbohydrate metabolism of common carp and provide an important scientific basis for the application of Momordica saponins as functional nutrients to alleviate insulin resistance of fish in fish culture.

Aqueous extract of Polygonatum sibiricum ameliorates glucose and lipid metabolism via PI3K/AKT signaling pathway in high-fat diet and streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice

This study was aimed to investigate the protective effects and elucidate the mechanisms of aqueous extract of Polygonatum sibiricum (PSAE) on glucolipid metabolism during the development of type 2 diabetes (T2DM). C57BL/6J mice fed with 60% high-fat diet (HFD) combined with streptozotocin (STZ) injection to simulate the occurrence process of T2DM. PSAE was administered daily by oral gavage during the experiment. The results demonstrated the protective effects in mice supplied with PSAE on the indicators of glycolipid metabolism (body weight, fasting blood glucose, the area under the curve, hemoglobin A1c, serum total cholesterol, triglyceride, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and liver triglyceride) compared with the Model group mice. Furthermore, PSAE can ameliorate insulin resistance in mice liver by activating phosphoinositide-3-kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/AKT) pathway signaling. Overall, our research suggested that PSAE can effectively regulate glucose and lipid metabolism during the development of T2DM as an alternative functional food. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Diabetes is a chronic metabolic disease which is characterized by abnormal metabolism of glucose and lipoid and nowadays it has been one of the most representative chronic systemic progressive metabolic diseases. Polygonatum sibiricum is a traditional Chinese galenical and it also can be used as food ingredients. PSAE is the aqueous extract of Polygonatum sibiricum. 34% polysaccharides were detected in PSAE and it can effectively regulate glucose and lipid metabolism during the development of T2DM in mice. Thus, PSAE might be a promising functional food for regulation of glucolipid metabolism and the study also provides a theoretical basis for the development and application of food about Polygonatum sibiricum.

Ferulic Acid Mediates Metabolic Syndrome via the Regulation of Hepatic Glucose and Lipid Metabolisms and the Insulin/IGF-1 Receptor/PI3K/AKT Pathway in Palmitate-Treated HepG2 Cells

Ferulic acid (FA) is one of the most abundant bound phenolics in whole grains, partly contributing to its preventive effects on metabolic syndrome (MetS). The study aims to investigate if FA mediates MetS through the regulation of hepatic metabolisms and the insulin receptor related pathways in the palmitate-treated HepG2 cells (MetS model). We found that FA (50, 100, and 200 μM) dramatically ameliorated the lipid accumulation in the MetS model. FA significantly decreased the activities of the gluconeogenic enzymes, G6Pase and PEPCK, downregulated the lipogenic enzyme FAS-1, and upregulated the lipolytic enzyme CPT-1 by regulating a series of transcriptional factors including HNF4α, FOXO-1, SREBP-1c, and PPAR-γ. Notably, we found that FA's ability to alleviate MetS is achieved by activating the insulin receptor/PI3K/AKT pathway. Our results validated the effects of FA on mediating the metabolic disorders of lipid and glucose pathways and unveiled its potential intracellular mechanisms for the prevention of MetS.

Fat mass and obesity-associated gene (FTO) hypermethylation induced by decabromodiphenyl ethane causing cardiac dysfunction via glucolipid metabolism disorder

Decabromodiphenyl ethane (DBDPE) is a major alternative to BDE-209 owing to its lower toxicity. However, the mass production and increased consumption of DBDPE in recent years have raised concerns related to its adverse health effects. However, the effect and mechanism of DBDPE on cardiotoxicity have rarely been studied. In the present study, we investigated the impacts of DBDPE on the cardiovascular system in male SD rats and then explored the underlying mechanisms to explain the cardiotoxicity of DBDPE using AC16 cells. Under in vivo conditions, male rats were administered with an oral dosage of DBDPE at 0, 5, 50, and 500 mg/kg/day for 28 days, respectively. Histopathological analysis demonstrated that DBDPE induced cardiomyocyte injury and fibrosis, and ultrastructural observation revealed that DBDPE could induce mitochondria damage and dissolution. DBDPE could thus decrease the level of MYH6 and increase the level of SERCA2, which are the two key proteins involved in the maintenance of homeostasis during myocardial contractile and diastolic processes. Furthermore, DBDPE could increase the serum levels of glucose and low-density lipoprotein but decrease the content of high-density lipoprotein. In addition, DBDPE could activate the PI3K/AKT/GLUT2 and PPARγ/RXRα signaling pathways in AC16 cells. In addition, DBDPE decreased the UCP2 level and ATP synthesis in mitochondria both under in vitro and in vivo conditions, consequently leading to apoptosis via the Cytochrome C/Caspase-9/Caspase-3 pathway. Bisulfite sequencing PCR (BSP) identified the hypermethylation status of fat mass and obesity-associated gene (FTO). 5-aza exerted the opposite effects on the PI3K/AKT/GLUT2, PPARγ/RXRα, and Cytochrome C/Caspase-9/Caspase-3 signaling pathways induced by DBDPE in AC16 cells. In addition, the DBDPE-treated altered levels of UCP2, ATP, and apoptosis were also found to be significantly reversed by 5-aza in AC16 cells. These results suggested that FTO hypermethylation played a regulative role in the pathological process of DBDPE-induced glycolipid metabolism disorder, thereby contributing to the dysfunction of myocardial contraction and relaxation through cardiomyocytes fibrosis and apoptosis via the mitochondrial-mediated apoptotic pathway resulting from mitochondrial dysfunction.

Korean naked waxy barley (saechalssal) extract reduces blood glucose in diabetic mice by modulating the PI3K-Akt-GSK3β pathway

Saechalssal barley is Korea's representative naked waxy barley. This study investigated the anti-diabetic effect of the extract derived from saechalssal and its mechanism. The prethanol extract of saechalssal (SPE) showed greater α-glucosidase inhibitory activity in vitro and a more significant lowering of the postprandial blood glucose levels in normal mice compared to its water extract (SWE). When mice with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) induced by a high-fat diet and streptozotocin were fed SPE (200 mg/kg/day) for six weeks, the fasting blood glucose and serum free fatty acid levels were significantly lower than those of the control group. SPE significantly elevated the hepatic glycogen accumulation with increasing glycogen synthesis-related gene (GYS2 and UGP2) levels compared to the control group. SPE stimulated the expression of the hepatic glycolysis-related genes (GK, PFK1, and PK) and suppressed the gluconeogenesis-related genes (G6Pase, FBP1, and PEPCK). SPE up-regulated the phosphorylation of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) and protein kinase B (Akt), whereas it down-regulated the phosphorylation of glycogen synthase kinase 3 beta (GSK3β) compared to the control. The major flavonoids of SPE were naringin, prunin, and catechin, while its phenolic acids were ferulic acid and vanillic acid. These phytochemical compounds may contribute to the anti-hyperglycemic effects of SPE in diabetes. Overall, these results suggest that SPE has potential anti-diabetic activity through the regulating the PI3K/Akt/GSK3β pathway.

6,8-(1,3-Diaminoguanidine) luteolin and its Cr complex show hypoglycemic activities and alter intestinal microbiota composition in type 2 diabetes mice

Flavonoid compounds such as luteolin exhibit hypolipidemic effects, and there are few reports on the hypoglycemic activity of luteolin derivatives. In this research, 6,8-(1,3-diaminoguanidine) luteolin (DAGL) and its Cr complex (DAGL·Cr) were obtained as a result of structural modifications to luteolin, and the hypoglycemic activities and the composition of intestinal microbiota in T2DM mice were investigated. This study found that DAGL and DAGL·Cr could significantly restore body weight, FBG, OGTT, AUC, and GSP in T2DM mice. Moreover, the pancreatic islet function index and the biochemical indicators of serum and the liver were also significantly improved. The histopathological results also showed that DAGL and DAGL·Cr had a stronger repair ability in the liver and the pancreas. It was also revealed that the potential hypoglycemic mechanism of DAGL and DAGL·Cr was involved in the simultaneous regulation of PI3K/AKT-1/GSK-3β/GLUT-4 and PI3K/AKT-1/mTOR/S6K1/IRS-1. Furthermore, DAGL and DAGL·Cr could also regulate the structure of the intestinal microbiota and increase the content of SCFA to relieve the symptoms of hyperglycemia in T2DM mice. This included a significant reduction in the ratio of Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes (F/B), and at the genus level, an increase in the relative abundance of Alistipe and Ruminiclostridium, and improvement in the content of SCFA in the feces of T2DM mice. In conclusion, in this study, DAGL and DAGL·Cr were found to improve hyperglycemia in T2DM mice by improving the pancreatic islet function index, regulating the biochemical indicators of serum and the liver, repairing damaged tissues, and regulating the PI3K/AKT-1 signaling pathway as well as reducing F/B, increasing the relative abundance of intestinal beneficial microbiota, and the content of SCFA in the feces. The hypoglycemic effect of DAGL·Cr on the body weight, serum IL-10, serum IL-6, and pancreatic islet function index was significantly better than that of DAGL.

Enhanced alleviation of insulin resistance via the IRS-1/Akt/FOXO1 pathway by combining quercetin and EGCG and involving miR-27a-3p and miR-96-5p

Quercetin and EGCG exhibit anti-diabetic and anti-obesity activities, however, their interactive effects in anti-diabetic/anti-obesity actions and underlying mechanisms remain unclear. This study aimed to fill these knowledge gaps. Quercetin, EGCG or their combination attenuated insulin resistance and decreased hepatic gluconeogenesis in high-fat-high-fructose diet (HFFD)-fed C57BL/6 mice and in palmitic acid (PA)-treated HepG2 cells. In mice, supplementation with quercetin (0.05%w/w), EGCG (0.05%w/w) and their combination (quercetin 0.05%+EGCG 0.05%w/w) reduced weight gain and fasting blood glucose and improved serum biochemical parameters. Compare with quercetin/EGCG alone, the quercetin-EGCG combination reduced gluconeogenesis to a greater extent via IRS-1/Akt/FOXO1-mediated down-regulation of downstream PEPCK and G-6-pase. In HepG2 cells, the quercetin (5 μM)-EGCG (5 μM) co-treatment exerted greater suppression on PA-induced changes in glucose and glycogen contents and hexokinase and G-6-pase activities than quercetin/EGCG alone (each 10 μM). The quercetin-EGCG co-treatment reduced glucose production through targeting FOXO1 and inhibiting the transcription of gluconeogenic enzymes. MiR-27a-3p and miR-96-5p regulated directly FOXO1 expression and function, and co-inhibition of miR-27a-3p and miR-96-5p weakened greatly the protective effect of quercetin-EGCG combination. This is the first report on the contributions of miR-27a-3p and miR-96-5p to the synergistic and protective effect of the quercetin-EGCG co-treatment against PA-induced insulin resistance through inhibiting FOXO1 expression.

Metformin: Expanding the Scope of Application-Starting Earlier than Yesterday, Canceling Later

Today the area of application of metformin is expanding, and a wealth of data point to its benefits in people without carbohydrate metabolism disorders. Already in the population of people leading an unhealthy lifestyle, before the formation of obesity and prediabetes metformin smooths out the adverse effects of a high-fat diet. Being prescribed at this stage, metformin will probably be able to, if not prevent, then significantly reduce the progression of all subsequent metabolic changes. To a large extent, this review will discuss the proofs of the evidence for this. Another recent important change is a removal of a number of restrictions on its use in patients with heart failure, acute coronary syndrome and chronic kidney disease. We will discuss the reasons for these changes and present a new perspective on the role of increasing lactate in metformin therapy.

Elucidation of the interaction effect between dietary fiber and bound polyphenol components on the anti-hyperglycemic activity of tea residue dietary fiber

Dietary fiber intake is beneficial for the prevention of some chronic metabolic diseases. Considering the characteristic that dietary fiber from tea residues (TRDF) is rich in bound polyphenols, the study aimed to elucidate the interaction effect between dietary fiber components (TRDF-DF) and bound polyphenol components (TRDF-BP) on the anti-hyperglycemic activity of TRDF. A type 2 diabetes (T2D) rat model induced by high-fat diet and streptozotocin injection was applied in this study. The results showed that bound polyphenol components rather than dietary fiber components were essential for the anti-hyperglycemic activity of TRDF, as evidenced by remarkable differences in fasting blood glucose (FBG), the insulin resistance index (HOMA-IR) and the levels of serum oxidative stress between the TRDF and TRDF-DF groups, as well as the up-regulation of the expression of insulin signaling pathway-related proteins in the liver after TRDF and TRDF-BP administration. In addition, the synergistic effect between TRDF-BP and TRDF-DF components modulated gut microbiota dysbiosis and increased the content of short chain fatty acids (SCFAs) via enriching beneficial bacteria and inhibiting harmful bacteria. The role of TRDF-BP and TRDF-DF as well as their interaction effect on the anti-hyperglycemic activity of TRDF are elucidated, which can provide theoretical basis for TRDF as a dietary supplement to manage T2D.

Beneficial Effects of Partly Milled Highland Barley on the Prevention of High-Fat Diet-Induced Glycometabolic Disorder and the Modulation of Gut Microbiota in Mice

The nutritional functions of highland barley (HB) are superior to those of regular cereals and have attracted increasing attention in recent years. The objective of this study was to investigate whether partly milled highland barley (PHB) can regulate the serum glucose and lipid disorders of mice fed a high-fat diet (HFD) and to further explore their potential gut microbiota modulatory effect. Our results showed that PHB supplementation significantly reduced fasting blood glucose (FBG) and improved oral glucose tolerance. Histological observations confirmed the ability of PHB to alleviate liver and intestine damage. Furthermore, the results of 16S amplicon sequencing revealed that PHB prevented a HFD-induced gut microbiota dysbiosis, enriching some beneficial bacteria, such as Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, and Ileibacterium, and reducing several HFD-dependent taxa (norank_f_Desulfovibrionaceae, Blautia, norank_f_Lachnospiraceae, unclassified_f_Lachnospiraceae, and Colidextribacter). In addition, the increase of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium presence has a slightly dose-dependent relationship with the amount of the added PHB. Spearman correlation analysis revealed that Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium were negatively correlated with the blood glucose level of the oral glucose tolerance test. Overall, our results provide important information about the processing of highland barley to retain its hypoglycemic effect and improve its acceptability and biosafety.

Sanghuangporus vaninii mixture ameliorated type 2 diabetes mellitus and altered intestinal microbiota in mice

Sanghuangporus vaninii mixture ameliorated type 2 diabetes mellitus through improving body weight, fasting blood glucose, insulin-related indicators, lipid indexes, inflammatory factors, histological pathology, and intestinal microbiota.

Hypermethylation of the Promoter of miR-338-5p Mediates Aberrant Expression of ETS-1 and Is Correlated With Disease Severity Of Astrocytoma Patients

The pro-oncogene ETS-1 (E26 transformation-specific sequence 1) is a key regulator of the proliferation and invasion of cancer cells. The present work examined the correlation of the aberrant expression of ETS-1 with histological or clinical classification of astrocytoma: grade I (pilocytic astrocytoma), grade II (diffuse astrocytoma), grade III (anaplastic astrocytoma), and grade IV (glioblastoma multiforme). MicroRNA, miR-338-5p, was predicted by an online tool (miRDB) to potentially target the 3’ untranslated region of ETS-1; this was confirmed by multi-assays, including western blot experiments or the point mutation of the targeting sites of miR-338-5p in ETS-1’s 3’untralation region (3’UTR). The expression of miR-338-5p was negatively associated with that of ETS-1 in astrocytoma, and deficiency of miR-338-5p would mediate aberrant expression of ETS-1 in astrocytoma. Mechanistically, hypermethylation of miR-338-5p by DNA methyltransferase 1 (DNMT1) resulted in repression of miR-338-5p expression and the aberrant expression of ETS-1. Knockdown or deactivation of DNMT1 decreased the methylation rate of the miR-338-5p promoter, increased the expression of miR-338-5p, and repressed the expression of ETS-1 in astrocytoma cell lines U251 and U87. These results indicate that hypermethylation of the miR-338-5p promoter by DNMT1 mediates the aberrant expression of ETS-1 related to disease severity of patients with astrocytoma.

Agriophyllum Oligosaccharides Ameliorate Diabetic Insulin Resistance Through INS-R/IRS/Glut4-Mediated Insulin Pathway in db/db Mice and MIN6 Cells

We have previously reported that Agriophyllum oligosaccharides (AOS) significantly enhance glycemic control by increasing the activation of insulin receptor (INS-R), insulin receptor substrate-2 (IRS-2), phosphatidylinositol 3 kinase (PI3K), protein kinase B (AKT), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)-γ, and glucose transporter 4 (Glut4) proteins in hepatic tissues. However, the effect of glucose control by AOS on the regulation of pancreatic tissues in db/db mice and MIN6 cells remains to be determined. An oral dose of AOS (380 or 750 mg/kg) was administered to type-2 diabetic db/db mice for 8 weeks to determine whether AOS regulates glucose by the INS-R/IRS/Glut4-mediated insulin pathway. Meanwhile, the effects of AOS on glucose uptake and its related signaling pathway in MIN6 cells were also investigated. The results showed that the random blood glucose (RBG) level in the AOS-treated group was lower than that in the control group. AOS reduced the levels of glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and free fatty acid (FFA) and significantly improved the pathological changes in the pancreatic tissues in db/db mice. Moreover, immunohistochemical analysis revealed that the expression of INS-R, IRS-1, IRS-2, and Glut4 was increased in the AOS-treated group than in the model group. Further, in vitro experiments using MIN6 cells showed that AOS regulated INS-R, IRS-1, IRS-2, and Glut4 protein and mRNA levels and attenuated insulin resistance and cell apoptosis. The results of both in vitro and in vivo experiments were comparable. Ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with time-of-flight mass spectrometric analysis of AOS with precolumn derivatization with 3-amino-9-ethylcarbazole (AEC) tentatively identified five types of sugars: glucose, lactose, rutinose, glucuronic acid, and maltotriose. Our present study clearly showed that AOS is efficacious in preventing hyperglycemia, possibly by increasing insulin sensitivity and improving IR by regulating the INS-R/IRS/Glut4 insulin signal pathway. Therefore, AOS may be considered as a potential drug for diabetes treatment.

Procyanidin B1 and p-Coumaric Acid from Highland Barley Grain Showed Synergistic Effect on Modulating Glucose Metabolism via IRS-1/PI3K/Akt Pathway

INTRODUCTION

Phenolic extract in highland barley grain has showed hypoglycemic effect, while little information is available about the active compounds and whether there exist additive or synergistic effect on modulating glucose metabolism.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Procyanidin B1 (PB) and p-coumaric acid (CA) are the active compounds in highland barley grain and show synergistic effect on improving glucose uptake and glycogen synthesis by upregulating glucose transporter (GLUT4) and downregulating glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK-3β) protein expression, respectively. The mechanism may be attributed to target insulin receptor (IRβ) and regulate insulin receptor substrate-1 (IRS-1)/phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/ protein kinase B (Akt) pathway. Furthermore, PB + CA exhibits synergistic effect on restoring glucose intolerance and insulin resistance, and improving hepatic glycogen synthesis in impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) mice. The postprandial blood glucose (PBG), homeostasis model assessment (HOMA)-IR values and serum insulin contents in PB + CA-treated IGT mice with dosage of 300 mg kg^-1 BW are reversed to normal levels. Additionally, PC + CA shows additive effect on inhibiting gluconeogenesis in vitro and in vivo.

CONCLUSION

PB + CA in highland barley grain synergistically modulate glucose metabolism. These results may provide evidence of whole highland barley grain diet achieve superior effect on restoring IGT than isolated components.

Metformin and insulin-resistant related diseases: Emphasis on the role of microRNAs

Metformin is one of the most prescribed drugs in type II diabetes (T2DM) which has recently found new applications in the prevention and treatment of various illnesses, from metabolic disorders to cardiovascular and age-related diseases. Metformin improves insulin resistance (IR) by modulating metabolic mechanisms and mitochondrial biogenesis. Alternation of microRNAs (miRs) in the treatment of IR-related illnesses has been observed by metformin therapy. MiRs are small non-coding RNAs that play important roles in RNA silencing, targeting the 3'untranslated region (3'UTR) of most mRNAs and inhibiting the translation of related proteins. As a result, their dysregulation is associated with many diseases. Metformin may alter miRs levels in the treatment of various diseases by AMPK-dependent or AMPK-independent mechanisms. Here, we summarized the therapeutic role of metformin by modifying the aberrant expression of miRs as potential biomarkers or therapeutic targets in diseases in which IR plays a key role.

Effects of physical activity on cell-to-cell communication during type 2 diabetes: A focus on miRNA signaling

Type 2 diabetes (TD2) is a progressive disease characterized by hyperglycemia that results from alteration in insulin secretion, insulin resistance, or both. A number of alterations involving different tissues and organs have been reported to the development and the progression of T2D, and more relevantly, through cell-to-cell communication pathways. Recent studies demonstrated that miRNAs are considerably implicated to cell-to-cell communication during T2D. Physical activity (PA) is associated with decreasing risks of developing T2D and acts as insulin-like factor. Cumulative evidence suggests that this effect could be mediated in part through improving insulin sensitivity in T2D and obese patients and modulating miRNAs synthesis and release in healthy patients. Therefore, the practice of PA should ideally be established before the initiation of T2D. This review describes cell-to-cell communications involved in the pathophysiology of T2D during PA.

Bovine Pre-adipocyte Adipogenesis Is Regulated by bta-miR-150 Through mTOR Signaling

Micro RNA (miR) are recognized for their important roles in biological processes, particularly in regulatory componentization. Among the miR, miR-150 has been the focus of intense scrutiny, mostly due to its role in malignant tumors. A comparison between steer and bull adipose tissues identified bta-miR-150 as one of the nine downregulated miRNAs, although its function remains unknown (GEO:GSE75063). The present study aimed to further characterize the role of bta-miR-150 in cattle. bta-miR-150 has a negative regulatory effect on the differentiation of bovine adipocytes and promotes proliferation. Overexpression of bta-miR-150 can promote mRNA and protein expression of the marker genes CDK1, CDK2, and PCNA, increase the number of EdU-stained cells, promote adipocyte proliferation, inhibit adipocyte differentiation, and reduce lipid droplet formation. Results of RNA-seq and WGCNA analyses showed that the mammalian target of the rapamycin signaling pathway, which plays a major regulatory role, is dysregulated by the overexpression and inhibition of miR-150. We found that the target gene of bta-miR-150 is AKT1 and that bta-miR-150 affects AKT1 phosphorylation levels. These results showed that bta-miR-150 plays a role in adipogenic differentiation and might therefore have applications in the beef industry.