Inhibition of 3T3-L1 Adipocyte Differentiation by D-allulose

Obesity is a serious problem in modern society and its prevalence continues to increase worldwide, resulting in metabolic disorder related diseases. D-allulose, a sugar substitute, boasts a near-zero calorie value and regulates lipid accumulation. However, the molecular mechanism of D-allulose at the cellular level has not been fully elucidated. In this study, we investigated the effect of D-allulose on 3T3-L1 adipocyte differentiation. D-allulose inhibits differentiation of 3T3-L1 preadipocytes into mature adipocytes, as examined by Oil Red O staining. The mRNA levels of genes involved in lipogenesis, including fatty acid synthase (FAS) and adipocyte fatty acid-binding protein (aP2), were significantly decreased and intracellular triglyceride (TG) content was markedly reduced with D-allulose treatment. We also monitored the activity of major adipogenic transcription factors–CREB, SREBP-1c, and PPARψ–using 3T3-L1 reporter cell lines that were constructed to secrete Gaussia luciferase upon binding of a transcription factor to its DNA binding element. Collectively, D-allulose suppresses adipocyte differentiation and lipid accumulation through regulating adipogenic transcription factors and may have anti-obesity potential.