Effect of Curcuma longa Extract on Lipid Accumulation during Adipocyte Differentiation using 3T3-L1 Cell Line

Abstract

Obesity and overweight are considered as one of the most serious problems worldwide. The stimulating factor of preadipocyte differentiation is known to be inhibited by curcumin. This study aims to examine whether lipid accumulation in adipocyte differentiation process using 3T3-L1 cell lines is affected by Curcuma longa, one of the main natural sources of curcumin. This experimental study used 3T3-L1 preadipocyte cell line. C. longa extracts with different concentrations (0, 5, 10, and 20 ppm) were added. The cells were cultured in DMEM medium containing 10% FBS. Cells were then induced by MDI (methylisobutylxanthine, dexamethasone, insulin) that initiated the adipocyte differentiation process. Medium was then replaced every 2 days. Insulin was added to the cells in the first medium replacement process to optimize glucose uptake and lipogenesis during differentiation process. The optimal adipocyte differentiation in control concentration (0 ppm) was obtained in day 12. Oil Red O solution were used to stain the cells and the cells were observed using microscope. Spectrophotometer was used to measure absorbance value at 550 nm wavelength. Treatment of 5 ppm of C. longa extract significantly increased lipid accumulation as compared to control group (p=0.0151). Addition of 10 ppm C. longa extract increased lipid accumulation (p>0.05), while treatment of 20 ppm C. longa extract reduced lipid accumulation (p>0.05). A significantly increased lipid accumulation was observed following a low dose of C. longa extract. On the other hand, high concentration of C. longa extract decreased lipid accumulation although not statistically significant.