KCTD1: A novel modulator of adipogenesis through the interaction with the transcription factor AP2α

Publication date: Available online 26 August 2019Source: Biochimica et Biophysica Acta (BBA) - Molecular and Cell Biology of LipidsAuthor(s): Luciano Pirone, Giovanni Smaldone, Rosa Spinelli, Manlio Barberisi, Francesco Beguinot, Luigi Vitagliano, Claudia Miele, Sonia Di Gaetano, Gregory Alexander Raciti, Emilia PedoneAbstractAdipogenesis has an important role in regulating energy balance, tissue homeostasis and disease pathogenesis. 3T3-L1 preadipocytes have been widely used as an in vitro model for studying adipocyte differentiation. We here show that KCTD1, a member of the potassium channel containing tetramerization domain proteins, plays an active role in adipogenesis. In particular, we show KCTD1 expression 3T3-L1 cells increases upon adipogenesis induction. Treatment of 3T3-L1 preadipocytes with Kctd1-specific siRNA inhibited the differentiation, as indicated by reduction of expression of the specific adipogenic markers C/ebpα, Pparγ2, Glut4, and Adiponectin. Moreover, we also show that the protein physically interacts with the transcription factor AP2α, a known inhibitor of adipogenesis, both in vitro and in cells. Interestingly, our data indicate that KCTD1 promotes adipogenesis through the interaction with AP2α and by removing it from the nucleus. Collectively, these findings disclose a novel role for KCTD1 and pave the way for novel strategies aimed at modulating adipogenesis.
Source: Biochimica et Biophysica Acta (BBA) Molecular and Cell Biology of Lipids - Category: Lipidology Source Type: research