Anti-adipogenic activity of blue mussel (Mytilus edulis) extract by regulation of 3T3-L1 adipogenesis through Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway

The blue mussel (Mytilus edulis) is widely distributed in European waters but it is little consumed. Although several studies have been reported biological activities of mussels, the anti-adipogenic activity of blue mussel and the molecular mechanism in anti-obese activity remain unknown. Here, we prepared a water extract of blue mussel (BME) and its anti-adipogenic activity was assessed in 3T3-L1 cells. BME treatment dose-dependently inhibited 3T3-L1 lipid accumulation, as judged by Oil Red O staining and microscopic analysis. Consistent with this, BME treatment markedly suppressed mRNA expression levels of adipogenic genes, such as C/EBP beta, PPAR gamma, C/EBP alpha, and FAS, in 3T3-L1 mature adipocytes. BME-inhibited lipid accumulation in 3T3-L1 adipocytes was limited with treatment after adipocyte differentiation, particularly in the early and intermediate stages. We also showed that the Wnt/beta-catenin signaling pathway is required in BME-inhibited 3T3-L1 adipogenesis. These finding may provide scientific evidence for the development of functional foods against obesity.