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Morin Exerts Anti-Diabetic Effects in Human HepG2 Cells Via Down-Regulation of miR-29a

Toktam Razavi1, Shideh Montasser Kouhsari1, Khalil Abnous2

  • 1Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, School of Biology, College of Science, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran.

Experimental and Clinical Endocrinology & Diabetes : Official Journal, German Society of Endocrinology [And] German Diabetes Association
|October 9, 2018
PubMed

Insights

Morin, a bioflavonoid, effectively treats diabetes by down-regulating microRNA-29a (miR-29a) expression. This action improves insulin signaling and glucose metabolism in diabetic conditions.

Area of Science:

  • Biochemistry
  • Molecular Biology
  • Endocrinology

Background:

  • Diabetes mellitus is a global metabolic disorder characterized by hyperglycemia.
  • MicroRNA-29a (miR-29a) plays a key role in regulating insulin signaling and gluconeogenesis.
  • Morin, a bioflavonoid, exhibits insulin-mimetic properties.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the effect of high glucose on miR-29a expression in HepG2 cells.
  • To evaluate the therapeutic potential of Morin in a high-glucose-induced diabetic model.
  • To elucidate the mechanism of Morin's action on miR-29a and related metabolic pathways.

Main Methods:

  • HepG2 cells were exposed to high glucose to simulate diabetic conditions.
  • miR-29a expression levels were measured using quantitative real-time PCR.
  • Expression of target genes (IRS2, PI3K) and gluconeogenic genes (PEPCK) were analyzed.
  • Cells were treated with Morin, and transfections with miR-29a mimic/inhibitor were performed.

Main Results:

  • High glucose significantly increased miR-29a expression in HepG2 cells.
  • High glucose decreased IRS2 and PI3K expression while increasing PEPCK expression.
  • Morin treatment down-regulated miR-29a, restored IRS2 and PI3K levels, and improved glucose metabolism.
  • Transfection studies confirmed Morin's inhibitory effect on miR-29a.

Conclusions:

  • Morin effectively ameliorates high-glucose-induced diabetic conditions in HepG2 cells.
  • The therapeutic effect of Morin is mediated through the down-regulation of miR-29a.
  • Morin represents a potential novel therapeutic agent for diabetes treatment by targeting miR-29a.

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