Phytotherapeutic Exploration of Natural Extracts, Synthetic compounds and small molecules for the Modulation of Adipogenesis: In-vitro studies using the 3T3-L1 adipogenesis model

Abstract

As per (WHO), obesity stands as one of the, big health concerns , where over 650 million indiviuals being affected worldwide. Its relation with metabolic disorders such as, ,cardiovascular diseases , dyslipidemia and Type-2, diabetes are some of the important concerns which need no explaination in today’s scenario .The origin of obesity starts when there is an imbalance between energy input and output, resulting in higher levels of adipogenesis and dyslipidemia. These factors further increase the metabolic complications and inflammatory conditions, indicating the driving need for safe and effective anti-obesity treatments. Current therapeutic interventions often have limited efficacy and adverse side effects. Therefore, the discovery of natural compounds with anti-adipogenic properties is crucial. Our project aims to identify natural compounds from plant sources, such as those extensively discussed in Ayurveda, but have not been assessed scientifically towards their anti-obesity or anti-dyslipidemic potential. In vitro model system, we have screened some of the naturally isolated compounds and plant extracts for anti-adipogenic activity in 3T3-L1, cell line, which is, an established model, for adipocyte differentiation. Promising compounds will be investigated further to determine the biochemical pathways they influence, focusing on the Wnt/β-catenin, the AMPK, the MAPK, and the AKT/mTOR, pathways. In addition, we will study how these compounds affect the process of insulin resistance in mature adipocytes, which is a hallmark of metabolic dysfunction related to obesity. Our research will focus on examining how natural extracts and synthetic compounds affect mitochondrial function, fatty acid oxidation, and other metabolic cascading routes associated with lipid metabolism and homeostasis of energy in the body, to understand their comprehensive biochemical impacts.