Evaluation of Glucose Uptake and Gene Expression Modulation of GLUT-4 and PPARγ by Methanolic Leaf Extract of Lipoblepharis urticifolia (Blume) Orchard in 3T3-L1 Mouse Pre Adipocyte Cell Lines

Abstract

Background: Lipoblepharis urticifolia (Blume) Orchard. (syn.Wedelia urticifolia), a member of the Asteraceae family, is recognized in traditional medicine but its antidiabetic properties remain unexplored. This study evaluates the antidiabetic potential of its methanolic leaf extract using in vitro models. Materials and Methods: The extract was assessed for alpha-glucosidase inhibition, glucose uptake in 3T3-L1 pre adipocyte cells, cytotoxicity by MTT assay, and gene expression of GLUT-4 and PPARγ by qRT-PCR normalized to housekeeping gene (β-Actin). Results: The extract showed strong, concentration-dependent alpha-glucosidase inhibition (up to 90.89±0.30% at 100 μg/mL; IC₅₀: 1.06 μg/mL) and low cytotoxicity in 3T3-L1 adipocyte cell lines. It enhanced glucose uptake maximally at 50 μg/mL and upregulated GLUT-4 expression (3.66-fold at 50 μg/ mL), with modest increases in PPARγ at higher doses. Conclusion: This investigation pioneers the exploration of the antidiabetic activity of L. urticifolia methanolic leaf extract, highlighting its promise as a natural antidiabetic agent and offering valuable insights into its potential mechanisms of action.