Madecassoside modulates lipid metabolism in visceral adipocytes: exploring the browning, lipolysis, and lipogenesis mechanisms for potential obesity treatment

Abstract Objectives Madecassoside (MA) is a triterpene derived from Centella asiatica that has been recognized for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties in various disease models. However, its direct impact on cultured white adipocytes and the underlying mechanisms, mainly through gene knockdown, have not been thoroughly explored. Methods Western blot analysis was utilized to assess the expression levels of various proteins, while oil red O staining was used to measure lipid deposition. The adipocyte shapes were confirmed using H&E staining. Key findings MA treatment enhanced browning and lipolysis in 3T3-L1 adipocytes and adipose tissue from experimental mice while suppressing lipogenesis. Furthermore, MA treatment increased the expression of PPARα and FGF21 in 3T3-L1 adipocytes as well as the secretion of FGF21 into the culture medium. Knockdown of PPARα or FGF21 using siRNA diminished the effects of MA on lipid metabolism in cultured adipocytes. Conclusions These findings demonstrate that MA promotes thermogenic browning and lipolysis while inhibiting adipocyte lipogenesis, thus showing the potential for attenuating obesity. The study suggested that MA could be a viable therapeutic approach for treating obesity.