Insulin-stimulated Uptake Research Articles

Impaired adipocyte SLC7A10 promotes lipid storage in association with insulin resistance and altered BCAA metabolism.

The neutral amino acid transporter SLC7A10/ASC-1 is an adipocyte-expressed gene with reduced expression in insulin resistance and obesity. Inhibition of SLC7A10 in adipocytes was shown to increase lipid accumulation despite decreasing insulin-stimulated uptake of glucose, a key substrate for de novo lipogenesis. These data imply that alternative lipogenic substrates to glucose fuel continued lipid accumulation during insulin resistance in obesity. We examined whether increased lipid accumulation during insulin resistance in adipocytes may involve alter flux of lipogenic amino acids dependent on SLC7A10 expression and activity, and whether this is reflected by extracellular and circulating concentrations of marker metabolites. In adipocyte cultures with impaired SLC7A10, we performed RNA-sequencing and relevant functional assays. By targeted metabolite analyses (GC-MS/MS), flux of all amino acids and selected metabolites were measured in human and mouse adipose cultures. Additionally, SLC7A10 mRNA levels in human subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) were correlated to candidate metabolites and adiposity phenotypes in two independent cohorts. SLC7A10 impairment altered expression of genes related to metabolic processes including branched-chain amino acid (BCAA) catabolism, lipogenesis and glyceroneogenesis. In 3T3-L1 adipocytes, SLC7A10 inhibition increased fatty acid uptake and cellular content of glycerol and cholesterol. SLC7A10 impairment in SAT cultures altered uptake of aspartate and glutamate, and increased the net uptake of BCAAs, while increasing the net release of the valine catabolite 3-hydroxyisobytsurate (3-HIB). In human cohorts, SLC7A10 mRNA correlated inversely with total fat mass, circulating TAG, BCAAs and 3-HIB. Reduced SLC7A10 activity strongly affects flux of BCAAs in adipocytes, which may fuel continued lipogenesis during insulin resistance, and be reflected in increased circulating levels of the valine-derived catabolite 3-HIB.

1147-P: Pseudo Insulin Resistance: Palmitate Inactivates Insulin Signaling but Stimulates Basal Glucose Uptake in 3T3-L1 Adipocytes

Increased levels of circulating free fatty acids (FFA) is the major risk factor for type 2 diabetes in obesity. While the long-term effects of increased FFA on adipose tissue likely involve latent inflammation, the short-term effects on insulin-sensitive adipocytes are less clear. We treated fully differentiated 3T3-L1 adipocytes with increased concentrations (0.3-1 mM) of a typical FFA, palmitate, for 2 days, and measured insulin stimulation of 2-deoxyglucose (2-DG) uptake. The insulin cascade and AMPK activities, Glut-1 and Glut-4 levels were measured by western blots (WB). Glut-4 translocation was measured either by WB after cell membrane fractionation, or by fluorescence analysis after lentiviral transduction of adipocytes with Glut-4 construct containing C-terminal mCherry and outer Myc epitope insertion in the Glut-4 extracellular loop. While fluorescence of mCherry reported the total Glut-4, that of anti-Myc antibody revealed Glut-4 exposed on the plasma membrane. Palmitate dose dependently increased basal 2-DG uptake, whereas insulin-stimulated uptake and Glut-4 translocation to the plasma membrane were significantly reduced only by high (1 mM) palmitate. High palmitate did not alter Glut-1 and Glut-4 expression, but reduced IRS phosphorylation (Tyr612) and completely ceased that of Akt (Thr308/Ser473) and AS160 (Ser318) in the absence or presence of insulin, as well as phosphorylation of ACC (Ser-79) by AMPK. These results suggest that the short-term effects of palmitate on adipocytes are associated with “pseudo” insulin resistance, i.e., an increased basal glucose uptake likely due to the “pull” mechanism for increased triglyceride turnover, and the loss of insulin stimulation possibly due to fill-up of fat depots. Disclosure N. Podkuychenko: None. S. Michurina: None. I. Stafeev: None. A. Y. Khapchaev: None. V. P. Shirinsky: None. A. V. Vorotnikov: None. Funding Russian Foundation for Basic Research (20-015-00471)

Constitutively Active Grp1 Promotes Basal Glucose Transport into White Adipose and Enhances Insulin Sensitivity in High-Fat Fed Mice

Insulin-stimulated phosphorylation of Grp1 (general receptor for phosphoinositides; a.k.a Cyth3, cytohesin3) in cultured adipocytes is known to promote recycling of insulin-regulated glucose transporter (Glut4)-containing vesicles from the endosome to plasma membrane, and to enhance glucose uptake thereafter. We found that Cre-dependent expression of a constitutively active form of Grp1 (caGrp1) specifically increased basal glucose uptake into WAT of young chow-fed mice, without altering Akt phosphorylation or insulin-stimulated uptake. Although early growth and glucose homeostasis in chow-fed caGrp1 mice were normal, caGrp1 mice fed a high fat diet (HFD) became markedly less adipose, and showed improved glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity vs. Cre-negative controls. Fasting insulinemia in HFD-fed caGrp1 mice was lower, whereas circulating adiponectin was higher, and FGF-21 and leptin were unchanged. Hepatic lipid disposition in HFD-fed caGrp1 mice was comparable to that in controls, though circulating and liver free fatty acids were slightly lower. However, epigonadal WAT from caGrp1 mice showed markedly reduced staining for inflammatory marker CD68, and adipocyte size was also significantly greater. Collectively, these features distinguish caGrp1 mice from those with adipose-specific over-expression of Glut4 described by others, but remain compatible with an adipose-specific basis of improved systemic insulin sensitivity. Given recently improved understanding of the structural/functional changes induced in Grp1 via Akt phosphorylation, drug-based activation of Grp1 in WAT might prove an attractive route by which to favorably alter systemic insulin sensitivity and glycemia. Disclosure K.D. Copps: None. J. Li: None.

Curculigoside and polyphenol-rich ethyl acetate fraction of Molineria latifolia rhizome improved glucose uptake via potential mTOR/AKT activated GLUT4 translocation

Adipose tissue is one of the major organs responsible for rapid restoration of postprandial glucose fluxes. Being the major isoform of glucose transporter in adipose tissue, regulations of insulin-dependent GLUT4 trafficking have always been of research interest. The present study aimed to examine the molecular mechanisms underlying the efficacy of curculigoside and polyphenol-rich ethyl acetate fraction (EAF) of Molineria latifolia rhizome in triggering glucose uptake. We assessed the adipogenic potential and glucose uptake stimulatory activity of curculigoside and EAF by employing a murine 3T3-L1 adipocyte model. The transcriptional and translational expressions of selected intermediates in the insulin signalling pathway were evaluated. While curculigoside neither promoted adipogenesis nor activated peroxisome proliferator activated receptor gamma, treatment with polyphenol-rich EAF resulted otherwise. However, both treatments enhanced insulin-stimulated uptake of glucose. This was coupled with increased availability of GLUT4 at the plasma membrane of the differentiated adipocytes although the total GLUT4 protein level was unaffected. In addition, the treatment increased the phosphorylation of both AKT and mTOR, which have been reported to be associated with GLUT4 translocation. The present findings proposed that curculigoside and EAF increased glucose transport activity of 3T3-L1 adipocytes via GLUT4 translocation as a result of potential mTOR/AKT activation. The more potent efficacy observed with EAF suggested potential synergistic and multi-targeted action.

QRFP-26 enhances insulin's effects on glucose uptake in rat skeletal muscle cells

QRFP is expressed in central and peripheral regions important for nutrient intake and metabolism. Central administration of QRFP-26 and QRFP-43 induces a macronutrient specific increase in the intake of high fat diet in male and female rats. Recently, cell culture models have indicated that QRFP-26 and QRFP-43 are involved in glucose and fatty acid uptake in pancreatic islets and adipocytes. Since skeletal muscle is a major consumer of circulating glucose and a primary contributor to whole body metabolism, the current study examined the effects of QRFP-26 and QRFP-43 on insulin-stimulated uptake of glucose in skeletal muscle using L6 myotubes. The current experiments were designed to test the hypothesis that QRFP and its receptors, GPR103a and GPR103b are expressed in L6 myotubes and that QRFP-26 and QRFP-43 affect insulin-stimulated uptake of glucose in L6 myotubes. The results indicate that prepro-QRFP mRNA and GPR103a mRNA are expressed in L6 cells, though GPR103b mRNA was not detected. Using complementary assays, co-incubation with QRFP-26, increased insulin's ability to induce glycogen synthesis and 2-deoxyglucose uptake in L6 cells. These data suggest that QRFP-26, but not QRFP-43, is involved in the metabolic effects of skeletal muscle and may enhance insulin's effects on glucose uptake in skeletal muscle. These data support a role for QRFP as a modulator of nutrient intake in skeletal muscle.

Abstract 15225: Post-ischemic Myocardial Insulin Resistance Induced by Tnf-α Overproduction Precipitates the Development of Heart Failure After Myocardial Infarction

Objectives: Clinical evidence has demonstrated a decreased myocardial insulin response in HF patients. However, the role of myocardial insulin resistance and the underlying mechanisms in HF are largely unclear. Methods and Results: Sprague Dawley rats subjected to myocardial infarction (MI) resulted in a progressive left ventricular (LV) remodeling and dysfunction. Echocardiographic assessment showed preserved LV end-systolic dimension (LVESD 0.453 ± 0.027 cm) and ejection fraction (EF 57.03 ± 2.35%) at 1 wk after MI, and evident LV dilation (LVESD 0.612 ± 0.026 cm) and dysfunction (EF 40.21 ± 3.09%) at 4 wk after MI. Myocardial insulin sensitivity decreased significantly at 1 wk after MI as evidenced by reduced insulin-stimulated myocardial fluorodeoxyglucose uptake (Standardized Uptake Value: 2.71 ± 0.42 vs. 5.13 ± 0.51 of sham+insulin, n=6, P <0.01) and GLUT-4 translocation and altered insulin signaling, whereas systemic insulin sensitivity remained unchanged. Mechanistically, myocardial TNF-α production was increased following MI. Treatment with etanercept (a TNF-α inhibitor) post-MI improved myocardial insulin sensitivity, while adenovirus-mediated overexpression of TNF-α resulted in myocardial insulin resistance in non-MI hearts. In addition, TNF-α overexpressed rat hearts exhibited LV dysfunction (EF 41.32 ± 4.21%) and LV dilation as early as 1 wk after MI. Moreover, insulin treatment during the first week following MI suppressed myocardial TNF-α production and increased myocardial insulin sensitivity, resulting in alleviated cardiac dysfunction and remodeling at 4 wk after MI. Importantly, in a separate experiment, cardiomyocyte-specific insulin receptor knockout mice exhibited aggravated post-ischemic LV remodeling and dysfunction compared with littermate controls. Conclusions: Our data provide novel insights that myocardial insulin resistance, independently of systemic insulin resistance, precipitates the development of post-ischemic HF. Myocardial insulin resistance is an early event partly attributed to myocardial TNF-α overproduction following MI. This finding indicates the essential role of myocardial insulin signaling in protection against ischemic HF.

Melatonin rescues 3T3-L1 adipocytes from FFA-induced insulin resistance by inhibiting phosphorylation of IRS-1 on Ser307.

Melatonin is biosynthesized in the pineal gland and secreted into the bloodstream. Evidences indicate a role of melatonin in the regulation of glucose metabolism. The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of melatonin on insulin sensitivity in insulin resistant adipocytes. Following a preincubation with melatonin or vehicle for 30 min, insulin resistant cells of 3T3-L1 adipocytes were induced by palmitic acids (300 μM, 6 h). Our results showed that palmitic acids inhibited both the basal and insulin-stimulated uptake of [(3)H]-2-Deoxyglucose, down-regulated the levels of IRS-1 and GLUT-4. However, compared to the vehicle group, melatonin pre-treatment increased significantly the uptake of [(3)H]-2-Deoxyglucose as well as the level of GLUT-4, and decreased phosphorylated IRS-1 (Ser307) although total IRS-1 did not change significantly. These data suggest that palmitic acids impair insulin signal via down-regulating the expressions of IRS-1 and GLUT-4; whereas melatonin can ameliorate insulin sensitivity by inhibiting Ser307 phosphorylation in IRS-1 and increasing GLUT-4 expressions in insulin resistant 3T3-L1 adipocytes. We conclude that melatonin regulates the insulin sensitivity and glucose homeostasis via inhibiting Ser-phosphorylation and improving function of IRS-1.

Preliminary Examination of Olanzapine and Diet Interactions On Metabolism in a Female Macaque.

Clinical data suggest that atypical antipsychotics such as olanzapine (OLZ) induce significant metabolic changes that are serious side effects of their primary use. Since controlled human studies are problematic and rodent data may be poorly translatable, we have initiated development of a macaque model of OLZ-induced metabolic disease. In this preliminary feasibility study, we examined some metabolic effects of OLZ in a female macaque in the context of a standard low-calorie/fat monkey chow diet followed by a high-fat/sugar Western-style diet (WSD). A female Japanese macaque was administered OLZ (1.25 mg/day) for 6 months, with dietary changes at 2-month intervals as follows: OLZ+Restricted chow, OLZ+Unrestricted chow, OLZ+WSD, and placebo+WSD. Weight was assessed weekly. Glucose tolerance tests (GTT) and Dexascans were performed at baseline and every 2 months. Omental (OM) and subcutaneous (SQ) adipose tissue biopsies were obtained at baseline, after OLZ+Unrestricted chow and after OLZ+WSD to evaluate adipocyte size, lipolysis and insulin-stimulated free fatty acid uptake (FFA). A separate trial was conducted on 2 monkeys with 5 days of OLZ- or no-treatment followed by RT-PCR on rostral and medial basal hypothalamus. Weight increased on OLZ+Restricted chow and stabilized on OLZ+Unrestricted chow. OLZ+WSD did not significantly change the weight plateau. Weight declined upon withdrawal of OLZ with continued WSD. Body fat increased from 14% at baseline to 22%, 30%, 28% and 19% at 2, 4, 6 and 8 mo, respectively, indicating that body fat was elevated on OLZ regardless of diet and declined upon OLZ removal. Glucose tolerance and the insulin response during GTT were normal with OLZ+Restricted chow or OLZ+Unrestricted chow. Addition of WSD with OLZ impaired glucose clearance during GTT. Insulin remained in the normal range, but first phase insulin secretion was reduced. After removal of OLZ, but continued WSD, glucose clearance returned to normal, but this was associated with hyperinsulinemia. Adipocyte diameter was increased in OM and SQ fat by OLZ+chow and OLZ+WSD to a similar extent. (p<0.01, 2-way ANOVA). In OM, isoproterenol-stimulated lipolysis occurred at baseline. In both depots, isoproterenol-stimulated lipolysis occurred with OLZ+chow, but it was significantly blunted by addition of WSD (ANOVA p<0.0001; posthoc p<0.05). Insulin increased FFA uptake at baseline. OLZ +chow or OLZ+WSD increased basal FFA uptake and insulin-induced FFA uptake was blunted in both depots (posthoc p<0.05). There was a marked decrease in POMC gene expression, and increased AgRP and NPY expression in the hypothalamus. There was also a clear increase in serotonin (5HT) 2C, melanocortin (MCR4), and Leptin (LepR) receptor gene expression. These data support the hypotheses that OLZ acts on peripheral tissues as well as in the CNS; that changes in hypothalamic gene expression occur very rapidly and precede increased fat accumulation; that adipose tissue exhibits insulin resistance prior to alterations in GTT; that addition of WSD to OLZ precipitates hyperglycemia without an obvious insulin response; and that removal of OLZ and continued WSD resulted in normalized glucose clearance and elevated insulin. These data suggest complex and early responses to OLZ that may be exacerbated by WSD.

Constituents from Terminalia species increase PPARα and PPARγ levels and stimulate glucose uptake without enhancing adipocyte differentiation

Ethnopharmacological relevanceThe fruits of Terminalia bellerica Roxb. (Combretaceae) and T. chebula Retz. (Combretaceae) are important components of triphala, a popular Ayurvedic formulation, for treating diabetes in Indian traditional medicine. Aim of the studyThe aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of the constituents of T. bellerica and T. chebula fruit extracts on PPARα and PPARγ signaling/expression, cellular glucose uptake and adipogenesis. Materials and methodsPPARα and PPARγ signaling and expression (luciferase assay and western blot) and the insulin-stimulated uptake of 2-NBDG were determined in HepG2 cells. The effects on adipogenesis were determined in 3T3-L1 cells by Oil red O staining and measurement of lipid content by AdipoRed reagent. ResultsOut of the 20 compounds, two ellagitannins, chebulagic acid (1) and corilagin (2), and three gallotannins, 2,3,6-tri-O-galloyl-β-d-glucose (3), 1,2,3,6-tetra-O-galloyl-β-d-glucose (4), and 1,2,3,4,6-penta-O-galloyl-β-d-glucose (5), showed the enhancement of PPARα and/or PPARγ signaling. Two of the gallotannins (4 and 5) also increased PPARα and PPARγ protein expression, while all three (3–5) enhanced insulin-stimulated glucose uptake into HepG2 cells. Compound 1,2,3,6-tetra-O-galloyl-β-d-glucose (4) was the most potent in increasing cellular glucose uptake (9.92-fold increase at 50μM). In the test for adipogenesis, 3–5 did not enhance the differentiation of 3T3-L1 preadipocytes but inhibited the adipogenic effect of rosiglitazone. ConclusionThree gallotannins (3–5) from Terminalia fruits acting as enhancers of both PPARα and PPARγ signaling increased insulin-stimulated glucose uptake without inducing the adipogenesis, with 1,2,3,6-tetra-O-galloyl-β-d-glucose (4) being the most effective in stimulating glucose uptake and 1,2,3,4,6-penta-O-galloyl-β-d-glucose (5) being most effective in increasing PPAR protein expression.

Renoprotective effects of metformin

Metformin as a biguanid drug entered to the market 50 years ago and now is generally recommended as the first-line treatment in type 2 diabetes, especially in overweight patients, however in recent years new indications for its use have emerged . It improves peripheral and liver sensitivity to insulin, reduces basal hepatic glucose production, increases insulin-stimulated uptake and utilization of glucose by peripheral tissues, decreases hunger and causes weight reduction.Recently, much attention has been made toward the possible kidney protective efficacy of metformin. Recent studies have proven that metformin, possesses antioxidant properties, too.

Exercise-Induced Muscle Damage Impairs Insulin Signaling Pathway Associated With IRS-1 Oxidative Modification

Strenuous exercise induces delayed-onset muscle damage including oxidative damage of cellular components. Oxidative stress to muscle cells impairs glucose uptake via disturbance of insulin signaling pathway. We investigated glucose uptake and insulin signaling in relation to oxidative protein modification in muscle after acute strenuous exercise. ICR mice were divided into sedentary and exercise groups. Mice in the exercise group performed downhill running exercise at 30 m/min for 30 min. At 24 hr after exercise, metabolic performance and insulin-signaling proteins in muscle tissues were examined. In whole body indirect calorimetry, carbohydrate utilization was decreased in the exercised mice along with reduction of the respiratory exchange ratio compared to the rested control mice. Insulin-stimulated uptake of 2-deoxy-[(3)H]glucose in damaged muscle was decreased after acute exercise. Tyrosine phosphorylation of insulin receptor substrate (IRS)-1 and phosphatidyl-3-kinase/Akt signaling were impaired by exercise, leading to inhibition of the membrane translocation of glucose transporter 4. We also found that acute exercise caused 4-hydroxy-nonenal modification of IRS-1 along with elevation of oxidative stress in muscle tissue. Impairment of insulin-induced glucose uptake into damaged muscle after strenuous exercise would be related to disturbance of insulin signal transduction by oxidative modification of IRS-1.

Resistin Exacerbates Insulin Resistance under the Condition of Low Adiponectin in 3T3-L1 Adipocytes

Adipocytokines such as resistin, TNF-α, and adiponectin, which are adipocyte-derived peptides, play important roles in glucose metabolism. Resistin and TNF-α have been implicated as factors associated with the development of insulin resistance in obesity. In contrast, adiponectin has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity in insulin resistance. However, the interaction among these adipocytokines is still unknown. In this study, we investigated the mechanism of the effects of these 3 adipocytokines (resistin, adiponectin, and TNF-α) on glucose transport in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. Glucose uptake was evaluated by 2-[3H] deoxy-glucose (DOG) uptake assay in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. Resistin and adiponectin secretion were analyzed by western blotting. Adenovirus-mediated overexpression of resistin inhibited insulin-stimulated 2-DOG uptake by only 15% compared with control cells. In contrast, pretreatment of cells with 10 ng/mL TNF-α for 3 hrs did not inhibit insulin stimulated 2-DOG uptake compared with control cells, whereas overexpression of resistin led to a ~ 40% decrease in insulin stimulated 2-DOG uptake following pretreatment with TNF-α. TNF-α has been shown to suppress the expression and secretion of adiponectin from adipocytes. Therefore, we speculated that this potentiating effect of resistin might be caused by the reduction in adiponectin secretion. We confirmed that the secretion of adiponectin was decreased by ~ 50% in TNF-α treated cells compared to control cells. Furthermore, overexpression of adiponectin prevented this additive effect of resistin and TNF-α. In conclusion, these results suggest that: (1) TNF-α enhances the action of resistin via the reduction of adiponectin, 2) Resistin may cause severe insulin resistance under low adiponectin levels.

Shikonin increases glucose uptake in skeletal muscle cells and improves plasma glucose levels in diabetic Goto-Kakizaki rats.

BackgroundThere is considerable interest in identifying compounds that can improve glucose homeostasis. Skeletal muscle, due to its large mass, is the principal organ for glucose disposal in the body and we have investigated here if shikonin, a naphthoquinone derived from the Chinese plant Lithospermum erythrorhizon, increases glucose uptake in skeletal muscle cells.Methodology/Principal FindingsShikonin increases glucose uptake in L6 skeletal muscle myotubes, but does not phosphorylate Akt, indicating that in skeletal muscle cells its effect is medaited via a pathway distinct from that used for insulin-stimulated uptake. Furthermore we find no evidence for the involvement of AMP-activated protein kinase in shikonin induced glucose uptake. Shikonin increases the intracellular levels of calcium in these cells and this increase is necessary for shikonin-mediated glucose uptake. Furthermore, we found that shikonin stimulated the translocation of GLUT4 from intracellular vesicles to the cell surface in L6 myoblasts. The beneficial effect of shikonin on glucose uptake was investigated in vivo by measuring plasma glucose levels and insulin sensitivity in spontaneously diabetic Goto-Kakizaki rats. Treatment with shikonin (10 mg/kg intraperitoneally) once daily for 4 days significantly decreased plasma glucose levels. In an insulin sensitivity test (s.c. injection of 0.5 U/kg insulin), plasma glucose levels were significantly lower in the shikonin-treated rats. In conclusion, shikonin increases glucose uptake in muscle cells via an insulin-independent pathway dependent on calcium.Conclusions/SignificanceShikonin increases glucose uptake in skeletal muscle cells via an insulin-independent pathway dependent on calcium. The beneficial effects of shikonin on glucose metabolism, both in vitro and in vivo, show that the compound possesses properties that make it of considerable interest for developing novel treatment of type 2 diabetes.

A water-soluble extract of Petalonia binghamiae inhibits the expression of adipogenic regulators in 3T3-L1 preadipocytes and reduces adiposity and weight gain in rats fed a high-fat diet

We previously showed that an ethanolic extract of the edible brown algae Petalonia binghamiae promotes the differentiation of 3T3-L1 preadipocytes and decreases hyperglycemia in streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice. Here, we report that a water-soluble extract of P. binghamiae thalli, prepared by enzymatic digestion, inhibits preadipocyte differentiation and adipogenesis in a dose-dependent manner. In differentiating 3T3-L1 preadipocytes, the extract (designated PBEE) decreased the expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ, CCAAT/enhancer-binding proteins α and β, and fatty acid-binding protein aP2. It also inhibited the mitotic clonal expansion process of adipocyte differentiation, and it inhibited insulin-stimulated uptake of glucose into mature 3T3-L1 adipocytes by reducing phosphorylation of insulin receptor substrate-1. In rats with high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obesity, PBEE exhibited potent anti-obesity effects. In this animal model, increases in body weight and fat storage were suppressed by the addition of PBEE to the drinking water at 500 mg/L for 30 days. PBEE supplementation reduced serum levels of glutamic pyruvic and glutamic oxaloacetic transaminases and increased the serum level of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol. Moreover, it significantly decreased the accumulation of lipid droplets in liver tissue, suggesting a protective effect against HFD-induced hepatic steatosis. Taken together, these data demonstrate that PBEE inhibits preadipocyte differentiation and adipogenesis in cultured cells and in rodent models of obesity.

Differential regulation of NHE1 phosphorylation and glucose uptake by inhibitors of the ERK pathway and p90RSK in 3T3-L1 adipocytes

Insulin stimulates trafficking of GLUT4 to the cell surface for glucose uptake into target cells, and phosphorylation of Ser703 of the Na+/H+ exchanger NHE1, which activates proton efflux. The latter has been proposed to facilitate optimal glucose uptake into cardiomyocytes. We found that the insulin-stimulated phosphorylation of Ser703 of NHE1 is mediated by p90RSK but not directly coupled to glucose uptake in 3T3-L1 adipocytes in the short-term. Inhibiting Erk1/2 activation prevented NHE1 phosphorylation but not glucose uptake in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. In contrast, both NHE1 phosphorylation and insulin-stimulated uptake of glucose into 3T3-L1 adipocytes were blocked by inhibitors of the N-terminal kinase domain of p90RSK, namely BI-D1870 and SL0101, but not the FMK inhibitor of the C-terminal kinase domain of p90RSK, though in our hands FMK did not inhibit p90RSK in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. Further experiments were consistent with phosphorylation of AS160 by PKB/Akt mediating insulin-stimulated trafficking of GLUT4 to the plasma membrane. BI-D1870 and SL0101 however, inhibited glucose uptake without blocking GLUT4 translocation. While BI-D1870 partially inhibited insulin-stimulated PKB activation in these cells, this only partially inhibited AS160 phosphorylation and did not block GLUT4 trafficking, suggesting that p90RSK might regulate glucose transport after GLUT4 translocation. Moreover, BI-D1870 also prevented PMA-induced glucose transport in 3T3-L1 adipocytes further suggesting a role for p90RSK in regulating uptake of glucose into the cells. Kinetic experiments are consistent with SL0101 being a direct competitor of 2-deoxyglucose entry into cells, and this compound might also inhibit uptake of glucose into cells via inhibiting p90RSK, as revealed by comparison with the inactive form of the inhibitor. Taken together, we propose that BI-D1870 and SL0101 might exert their inhibitory effects on glucose uptake in 3T3-L1 adipocytes at least partially through a p90RSK dependent step after GLUT4 becomes associated with the plasma membrane.

Permissive action of protein kinase C-ζ in insulin-induced CD36- and GLUT4 translocation in cardiac myocytes

Insulin stimulates cardiac long-chain fatty acid (LCFA) and glucose uptake via translocation of human homolog of rat fatty acid translocase (CD36) and GLUT4 respectively, from intracellular membrane compartments to the sarcolemma, a process dependent on the activation of phosphatidylinositol-3 kinase. To identify downstream kinases of insulin signaling involved in translocation of CD36 and GLUT4 in the heart, we tested i) which cardiac protein kinase C (PKC) isoforms (alpha, delta, epsilon or zeta) are activated by insulin, and ii) whether PKC isoform-specific inhibition affects insulin-stimulated substrate uptake in the heart. Insulin-stimulated LCFA and glucose uptake were completely blunted by inhibition of PKC-zeta, but not by inhibition of conventional or novel PKCs. Concomitantly, translocation of CD36 and GLUT4 to the sarcolemma was completely blunted upon inhibition of PKC-zeta. However, insulin, in contrast to the diacylglycerol-analog phorbol-12-myristate-13-acetate (PMA), did not induce membrane-attachment of the conventional and novel PKCs-alpha, -delta, and -epsilon. PKC-zeta was already entirely membrane-bound in non-stimulated cells, and neither insulin nor PMA treatment had any effect on the subcellular localization of PKC-zeta. Furthermore, insulin treatment did not change phosphorylation of PKC-alpha, -delta, and -zeta or enzymatic activity of PKC-zeta towards a PKC-zeta substrate peptide. It is concluded that PKC-zeta, but not any other PKC isoform, is necessary for insulin-induced translocation of GLUT4 and CD36. However, PKC-zeta is already fully active under basal conditions and not further activated by insulin, indicating that its role in insulin-stimulated uptake of both glucose and LCFA is permissive rather than regulatory.

Fibroin-Derived Peptides Stimulate Glucose Transport in Normal and Insulin-Resistant 3T3-L1 Adipocytes

Fibroin, the protein of silk, and hydrolyzed fibroin have recently been described to enhance insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. Here, we report that a series of synthetic peptides derived from the fibroin sequence have enhancing effects on glucose transport in normal and insulin-resistant 3T3-L1 cells. We observed that, among several enzymatic hydrolysates of fibroin, the chymotryptic and peptic hydrolysates were significantly more effective than others in augmenting insulin-stimulated glucose uptake in both cells. We synthesized several peptides of repetitive sequences in fibroin. Treatment with synthesized hexapeptides enhanced insulin-stimulated glucose uptake more than tri-, tetra- or pentapeptides. Among those, the effect of Gly-Ala-Gly-Ala-Gly-Tyr (GAGAGY) was most robust, and especially its activity of blocking off the chronic-insulin-induced loss of insulin-stimulated uptake was remarkable. Data reveal that the residues of tyrosine situated at the ends of the peptides play a critical role for exerting their activities. We demonstrate that the insulin-sensitizing effect of GAGAGY is due to enhancement of phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI 3-K) signaling pathway. The GAGAGY-induced insulin-stimulated glucose uptake was sensitive to inhibition of PI 3-K by wortmannin. Phosphorylation of Akt was also elevated in GAGAGY-treated cells. Furthermore, GAGAGY significantly increased insulin-induced glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4) translocation without affecting the synthesis of GLUT4. Our findings suggest that fibroin-derived peptides such as GAGAGY could be considered as novel insulin-sensitizing agents with an activity of blocking the development of insulin resistance.

Rip11 is a Rab11- and AS160-RabGAP-binding protein required for insulin-stimulated glucose uptake in adipocytes

The translocation of GLUT4 to the plasma membrane underlies the ability of insulin to stimulate glucose uptake, an event that involves the activation of protein kinase B, several members of the Rab family of GTP-binding proteins and the phosphorylation of the Rab GTPase-activating protein AS160. Here, we explored the regulation by insulin of the class I Rab11-interacting proteins Rip11, RCP and FIP2. We show that Rip11, but not RCP or FIP2, translocates to the plasma membrane of 3T3-L1 adipocytes in response to insulin. This unique response of Rip11 prompted us to explore the role of this protein in more detail. We found that Rip11 partially colocalises with GLUT4 in intracellular compartments. siRNA-mediated knockdown of Rip11 inhibits insulin-stimulated uptake of 2-deoxyglucose, and overexpression of Rip11 blocks insulin-stimulated insertion of translocated GLUT4 vesicles into the plasma membrane. We additionally show that Rip11 forms a complex with AS160 in a Rab11-independent manner and that insulin induces dissociation of AS160 from Rip11. We propose that Rip11 is an AS160- and Rab-binding protein that coordinates the protein kinase signalling and trafficking machinery required to stimulate glucose uptake in response to insulin.

Abstract 1216: The Cardioactive Peptide Apelin Increases Adipocyte Glucose Uptake and is Necessary for the Maintenance of Systemic Insulin Sensitivity

Background : Apelin, a peptide hormone with unique cardioactive properties, is also an adipokine, secreted by adipocytes in response to insulin. However, the overall effect of apelin on insulin sensitivity remains largely uncharacterized. Methods : For in vitro experiments, 3T3L1 cells were differentiated into adipocytes over 8 days, with apelin (1 microM) added daily to the media. Cells were then treated with insulin (100 nM; n = 5) for 30 minutes and incubated with 2-[ 3 H]-deoxyglucose. Glucose incorporation was then measured by scintillation counting. For in vivo experiments (n = 4 all studies), apelin-deficient (KO) mice were created by homologous recombination in embryonic stem cells. At age 7 weeks, insulin and glucose tolerance tests, as well as an enzyme immunosorbent assay for insulin, were performed after a 6-hour fast. The mice were then scanned by computed tomography using a GE eXplore RS MicroCT system, and visceral adipose content was determined with MicroView software. Upon sacrifice 1 week later, visceral adipocytes were isolated via collagenase digestion, exposed to insulin, and assessed for glucose uptake as above. Results : Because apelin is upregulated by insulin in adipocytes, we measured glucose uptake in differentiated 3T3L1 cells chronically dosed with apelin. Though no differences were observed in basal uptake, insulin-induced uptake was increased versus control (p &lt; 0.05). To further investigate the role of apelin in vivo , we assessed for insulin resistance in apelin KO mice. At 8 weeks of age, apelin KOs were heavier than age-matched wild type controls (25 vs. 22 g; p &lt; 0.05). Though fasting glucose levels were not significantly different between groups, insulin levels were increased in the KOs (895 vs. 477 pg/microL; p &lt; 0.05). In addition, both insulin and glucose tolerance tests were significantly abnormal in the KOs compared to wild type. Moreover, visceral fat volume was greater in the KOs (274 vs. 248 mm 3 /g body weight; p &lt; 0.05). Finally, insulin-stimulated uptake was reduced (p &lt; 0.05). Conclusions : Apelin is necessary for the proper maintenance of glucose homeostasis. Furthermore, apelin potentiates insulin-induced glucose uptake in adipocytes, suggesting a possible mechanism for its insulin sensitizing effects.

Amino Acid Transporter ATA2 Is Stored at the trans-Golgi Network and Released by Insulin Stimulus in Adipocytes

Recently, we cloned the ATA/SNAT transporters responsible for amino acid transport system A. System A is one of the major transport systems for small neutral and glucogenic amino acids represented by alanine and is involved in the metabolism of glucose and fat. Here, we describe the cellular mechanisms that participate in the acute translocation of ATA2 by insulin stimulus in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. We monitored this insulin-stimulated translocation of ATA2 using an expression system of enhanced green fluorescent protein-tagged ATA2. Studies in living cells revealed that ATA2 is stored in a discrete perinuclear site and that the transporter is released in vesicles from this site toward the plasma membrane. In immunofluorescent analysis, the storage site of ATA2 overlapped with the location of syntaxin 6, a marker of the trans-Golgi network (TGN), but not with that of EEA1, a marker of the early endosomes. The ATA2-containing vesicles on or near the plasma membrane were distinct from GLUT4-containing vesicles. Brefeldin A, an inhibitor of vesicular exit from the TGN, caused morphological changes in the ATA2 storage site along with the similar changes in the TGN. In non-transfected adipocytes, brefeldin A inhibited insulin-stimulated uptake of alpha-(methylamino)isobutyric acid more profoundly than insulin-stimulated uptake of 2-deoxy-d-glucose. These data demonstrate that the ATA2 storage site is specifically associated with the TGN and not with the general endosomal recycling system. Thus, the insulin-stimulated translocation pathways for ATA2 and GLUT4 in adipocytes are distinct, involving different storage sites.