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CM-27

In vitro evaluation of thermogenic activation by rutaecarpine and

rheochrysidin in human white adipocytes

1,2
,1
Tran Thi Phuong Thao,* Su-Yin Chiang, Chih-Hao Wang
3

1 Graduate Institute of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, Taiwan
2 School of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, Taiwan
3 Genomics Research Center, Academia Sinica, Taiwan
* E-mail: tranthao12yds@gmail.com

Abstract
Obesity is a growing global health challenge associated with increased risks of metabolic
disorders, cardiovascular disease, and reduced quality of life. Conventional treatments often
face limitations in efficacy and sustainability, prompting the search for alternative strategies.
One such promising approach is the induction of browning in white adipocytes—a process that
transforms energy-storing white fat into thermogenically active beige fat, thereby enhancing
energy expenditure. Recent research highlights the potential of natural compounds, particularly
those derived from traditional medicine, as safe and sustainable agents for promoting adipocyte
browning. However, most existing studies rely on mouse preadipocyte models, which fail to
accurately represent the physiology of mature human white adipocytes. To address this gap, the
present study investigates the browning-inducing effects of two natural compounds,
rutaecarpine (Rut) and rheochrysidin (Rh), using the A41W mature human white adipocyte cell
model. This research aims to explore the therapeutic potential of Rut and Rh in combating
obesity by enhancing thermogenic gene expression in human adipocytes.

Keywords: Obesity; Browning; Rutaecarpine; Rheochrysidin