Adipogenic Effect of Magnolol in Primary Human Pre-Adipocytes With Potential Skin Health and Volumizing Effect

Aging is associated with fat atrophy and fibrosis with loss of adipocyte differentiation from preadipocytes. New approaches to this loss involve agents that can renew the proliferative and differentiative capacities of preadipocytes with the aim of creating new healthy adipose tissue that secrete adipokines that positively impact on skin health.

We investigated the effect of Magnolol (ML), a naturally derived compound, on human primary pre-adipocyte viability and proliferation as well as adipogenic gene expression and increase in lipid production. Cell proliferation was assessed using fluorescent signaling, and adipocyte differentiation was monitored by following morphological and microscopic changes. RNA purification and real-time PCR were undertaken to examine gene expression changes, and Oil red O staining was used to confirm adipose cell transformation. Adipokine expression, in particular adiponectin quantification, was also undertaken.

Magnolol, at a relatively low concentration, demonstrated clear adipogenic activity: with a significant increase in preadipocyte proliferation after 48 h and a significant accumulation of adipocytes as demonstrated by oil red staining. Increased gene expression of PLN1 and FABP4 and a significant increase in adiponectin protein expression was demonstrated.

Magnolol stimulates preadipocyte proliferation and conversion to adipokine-producing adipocytes. This has the potential for a positive skin health and volumizing effect if used in a topical formulation.