Resveratrol inhibits cell differentiation in 3T3-L1 adipocytes via activation of AMPK

Resveratrol (Res) is a natural polyphenolic compound with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Also, Res can inhibit lipogenesis and adipocyte differentiation. However, the underlying mechanisms of Res's functions remain largely unknown. AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is a key player in adipocyte differentiation. Therefore, the purpose of our study was to determine the role played by AMPK in the Res-mediated regulation of adipocyte differentiation. Incubation of 3T3-L1 cells with Res confirmed that Res inhibited adipocyte differentiation. The phosphorylation of AMPK alpha was increased by Res in a dose-dependent manner, while total AMPK alpha levels were unchanged, and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPAR gamma), CCAAT-enhancer-binding protein alpha (C/EBP alpha), and sterol regulatory element-binding protein 1c (SREBP-1c) levels were decreased. Interestingly, pretreatment with AMPKa siRNA and Res promoted adipocyte differentiation, while the decrease of p-AMPK alpha increased PPAR gamma, C/EBP alpha, and SREBP-1c protein expression. Our study shows that Res is capable of inhibiting lipogenesis and differentiation of 3T3-L1 adipocytes via activation of AMPK, suggesting its potential therapeutic application in the treatment or prevention of obesity.