Differential expression of Ago2-mediated microRNA signaling in adipose tissue is associated with food-induced obesity

Abstract

Adipose tissue is a major component for the regulation of energy homeostasis by storage and release of lipids. As a core element of RNA-induced silencing complex, argonaute2 (Ago2) plays critical role in maintenance of systemic metabolic demand. Here, we show that high-fat-diet-fed mice exhibit an increase in body mass alongside systematic insulin resistance and altered rate of energy expenditure. Interestingly, Ago2 expression is associated with obesity and an increased amount of adipose tissue. Moreover, increased levels of Ago2 inhibited the expression of AMPKα by promoting its targeting by miR-148a, the most abundant microRNA in adipose tissues. Those results suggested that Ago2–miR-148a–AMPKα signaling pathway play an important function in the developing obesity and adiposity, and will further provide basic research data for the potential clinical treatment of obesity.