Irisin regulates thermogenesis and lipolysis in 3T3-L1 adipocytes

Adipose tissue plays a pivotal role in the development and progression of the metabolic syndrome which along with its complications is an epidemic of the 21st century. Irisin is an adipo-myokine secreted mainly by skeletal muscle and targeting, among others, adipose tissue. In brown adipose tissue it upregulates uncoupling protein-1 (UCP1) which is responsible for mitochondrial non-shivering thermogenesis. Here we analyzed the effects of irisin on the metabolic activity of 3T3-L1 derived adipocytes through a mitochondrial flux assay. We also assessed the effects of irisin on the intracellular signaling through Western Blot. Finally, the gene expression of ucp1 and lipolytic genes was examined through RT-qPCR. Irisin affects mitochondrial respiration and lipolysis in a time-dependent manner through the regulation of PI3K-AKT pathway. Irisin also induces the expression of UCP1 and the regulation of NF-κB, and CREB and ERK pathways. Our data supports the role of irisin in the induction of non-shivering thermogenesis, the regulation of energy expenditure and lipolysis in adipocytes. Irisin may be an attractive therapeutic target in the treatment of obesity and related metabolic disorders. Intracellular pathways regulated by irisin in 3T3-L1 derived adipocytes. [Display omitted] •Irisin alters cellular respiration in 3T3-L1 adipocytes after physical activity.•Irisin regulates UCP1 expression via modualtion of CREB and ERK.•Irisin regulates the expression of lipogenic genes in 3T3-L1 adipocytes.