Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 2, 2026
Author Spotlight: Semi-Automated Isolation of the Stromal Vascular Fraction from Murine White Adipose Tissue Using a Tissue Dissociator
Published on: May 19, 2023
miR-129-5p Inhibits Adipogenesis through Autophagy and May Be a Potential Biomarker for Obesity
1Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Shanghai Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
Introduction:
Obesity has an unclear pathogenesis. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) may function as biologically active molecules for obesity through regulating adipocyte differentiation. This study aimed to identify how miR-129-5p (a specific miRNA) regulates adipogenesis in vitro and explore its possible role in the pathogenesis of obesity in humans.
Materials And Methods:
The miR-129-5p expression was detected in obese mouse models. The effect of miR-129-5p on adipocyte differentiation was observed, and the adipose markers were analyzed. Bioinformatics and dual-luciferase reporter assay were applied to predict and confirm the target genes of miR-129-5p. The human serum samples were detected and analyzed.
Results:
miR-129-5p is highly expressed in adipose tissues of db/db mice. Gain- and loss-of-function studies show that miR-129-5p could significantly inhibit adipocyte differentiation and white adipocyte browning in vitro and decreases the level of specific markers, such as FABP4, UCP1, and PPARγ, in mature white and brown adipocytes. miR-129-5p directly targets ATG7 which is predicted with bioinformatics and confirmed by dual-luciferase reporter assay. Serum miR-129-5p level was evidently elevated in patients with simple obesity (p < 0.01) and correlates with obesity indices, including BMI (r = 0.407, p < 0.029) and fat percentage (r = 0.394, p < 0.038).
Conclusion:
miR-129-5p might target on the ATG7-related autophagy signaling network that regulates white and brown adipogenesis. Importantly, the aforementioned results suggest serum miR-129-5p might be a potential biomarker and therapeutic target for obesity.
Insights
MicroRNA-129-5p (miR-129-5p) inhibits adipocyte differentiation and browning by targeting ATG7. Elevated serum miR-129-5p levels in obese patients suggest its potential as a biomarker and therapeutic target for obesity.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Endocrinology
- Metabolic Diseases
Background:
- Obesity pathogenesis is complex, with microRNAs (miRNAs) potentially regulating adipocyte differentiation.
- This study investigates the role of miR-129-5p in adipogenesis and its link to human obesity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To elucidate the function of miR-129-5p in adipocyte differentiation and browning.
- To identify the molecular targets of miR-129-5p in adipogenesis.
- To explore the potential of serum miR-129-5p as a biomarker for obesity.
Main Methods:
- Detection of miR-129-5p expression in obese mouse models.
- In vitro studies on adipocyte differentiation and marker analysis.
- Bioinformatics and dual-luciferase reporter assays to identify miR-129-5p targets.
- Analysis of serum miR-129-5p levels in human obesity patients.
Main Results:
- miR-129-5p expression is elevated in adipose tissue of obese mice.
- miR-129-5p inhibits adipocyte differentiation and browning, downregulating FABP4, UCP1, and PPARγ.
- miR-129-5p directly targets ATG7.
- Serum miR-129-5p levels are significantly higher in obese patients and correlate with BMI and fat percentage.
Conclusions:
- miR-129-5p regulates adipogenesis via the ATG7-autophagy pathway.
- Serum miR-129-5p shows promise as a potential biomarker and therapeutic target for obesity.
