Anti-adipogenic effect ofLactobacillus fermentumMG4231 and MG4244 through AMPK pathway in 3T3-L1 preadipocytes

This study evaluated the anti-adipogenic effects and mechanisms underlying the action ofLactobacillus fermentumMG4231 and MG4244 strains on adipogenesis and lipid accumulation in 3T3-L1 preadipocytes. Treatment with cell-free extracts (CFEs) from the two strains reduced lipid accumulation and intracellular triglyceride production in 3T3-L1 adipocytes by more than 50%. The inhibitory effects ofL. fermentumon lipid accumulation were mediated by the downregulation of FAS and aP2 resulting from the inhibition of PPAR gamma and C/EBP alpha gene expression. Moreover, AMPK and HSL phosphorylation was upregulated by CFE treatment. These results indicated that the anti-adipogenic and lipolysis activities ofL. fermentumstrains were caused by increased AMPK and HSL phosphorylation. Both strains displayed high leucine arylamidase and beta-galactosidase enzymatic activity, with excellent adhesion to epithelial cells. Therefore, we identifiedL. fermentumas potential new probiotics for the prevention of obesity.