Adipogenesis, lipolysis, and extracellular matrix remodeling are early modulated by a triterpene-enriched natural extract in a mouse cell line and primary human adipocytes

Chronic Inflammation has a key role in the development of insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. Previously, we demonstrated that OBE100, a natural extract from the leaves of Eucalyptus tereticornis, has anti-inflammatory properties. Three pentacyclic triterpenoids, ursolic acid, oleanolic acid, and ursolic acid lactone are the major compounds present in OBE100. These molecules have shown multiple biological activities. In this study we analyzed how the compounds of OBE100 modify adipocyte gene expression using RNA sequencing. Triterpenoids regulate the inflammatory program in differentiated adipocytes, inhibiting the expression of many cytokines, chemokines, and inflammatory mediators. However, the OBE100 extract has a more powerful immunomodulatory effect than the triterpene mixture increasing the number of genes regulated, both in mouse and human models. Our study shows that OBE100 is a promising extract for the treatment of diabetes that can break the link between inflammation and insulin resistance.