# Metabolic Regulation Mechanisms of the Hypoglycemic and Anti‐Obesity Effects of Ficus pumila L. Var. awkeotsang Achene Extracts in 3T3‐L1 Cells

## TL;DR

This study explores how extracts from a specific strain of jelly fig may help reduce obesity and high blood sugar by affecting fat and glucose metabolism in cells.

## Contribution

The study identifies the hypoglycemic and anti-obesity potential of Hong-jiou strain jelly fig extracts through metabolic regulation in 3T3-L1 cells.

## Key findings

- The Hong-jiou strain extract inhibited lipid droplet formation and reduced fat accumulation in 3T3-L1 cells.
- The extract increased glucose uptake in a concentration-dependent manner, with the 200 μg·mL−1 concentration showing the strongest effect.
- The extract modulated mRNA expression of genes related to fat metabolism and glucose regulation, including PPARγ, SREBP-1c, and IRS1.

## Abstract

Jelly fig (
Ficus pumila
L. var. awkeotsang) a species unique to Taiwan has been used for centuriesas sweets and snacks. It also has potential for medicinal purposes. In this study, the functional efficacy of the extracts of the achenes of different strains of jelly figs was compared. We found that the 80% methanol extract of the Hong‐jiou strain had a favorable inhibitory effect on the glycolytic enzymes. Furthermore, 3T3‐L1 cells were used to assess whether the extract of the Hong‐jiou strain can help regulate the transportation and utilization of glucose in the body and to investigate the insulin‐related signal transmission and regulation. According to the results of Oil Red O staining, the Hong‐jiou extract inhibited the formation of lipid droplets in both the prevention group and the curing group, and the determination of triglyceride content also showed that it reduced fat accumulation and the degree of differentiation. The three concentrations of the prevention group and the curing group revealed that the increase in glucose uptake was concentration dependent. Based on the comprehensive research results, the prevention group 200 μg·mL−1 (p‐200 group) was identified to have the greatest potential to inhibit obesity and improve hyperglycemia. According to the analysis of related protein expression based on the mRNA reverse transcription assay, the Hong‐jiou extract affected the mRNA expressions of PPARγ, SREBP‐1c, IRS1, LIPE, and CPT1 to reduce the degree of differentiation and the accumulation of fatty acids as well as increase glucose uptake, thereby having the potential hypoglycemic and anti‐obesity effects.

The findings of the present study will be helpful in the diet and health management of patients with diabetes, patients suffering from long‐term obesity, and the elderly. In addition, these results would improve the economic value of jelly fig achenes.