Salvianolic acid B induces browning in 3T3-L1 white adipocytes via activation of β3-AR and ERK signaling pathways

Salvianolic acid B (Sal B), a natural compound extracted from Salvia miltiorrhiza (Danshen), is well known for its anti-oxidative activity and treatment of cardiovascular diseases. However, little is known about the functional roles of Sal B in white adipocytes. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the functions of Sal B in 3T3-L1 white adipocytes, with a focus on white fat browning effect. Exposure to Sal B significantly increased the expressions of beige-specific genes and thermogenic marker proteins. Sal B also suppressed lipogenesis and enhanced lipolysis in white adipocytes. A mechanistic study revealed that Sal B stimulates white fat browning via beta 3-AR and ERK signaling pathways in an independent manner. In conclusion, our findings indicate that Sal B is beneficial in the prevention and treatment of obesity, at least in part by promoting thermogenesis.