Melatonin's Role in Fat Metabolism and Inflammation in Aging Mice
Author Information
Author(s): Lv Dongying, Ren Yujie, Chen Jiayan, Pang Ziyao, Tang Yaxuan, Zhang Lizong, Yan Laiqing, Ai Xiufeng, Xv Xiaoping, Wang Dejun, Cai Zhaowei
Primary Institution: Zhejiang Chinese Medical University
Hypothesis
Melatonin protects against white fat accumulation and inflammation in aged mice on a high-fat diet.
Conclusion
Melatonin supplementation reduces lipid accumulation and inflammation in the epididymal white adipose tissue of aged mice on a high-fat diet.
Supporting Evidence
- Melatonin supplementation increased levels of glutathione in the fat of aged mice.
- Aged mice on a high-fat diet showed increased inflammation and lipid deposition.
- Melatonin reduced inflammatory markers such as TNF-α and IL-1β in the eWAT.
- Transcriptomic analysis revealed significant alterations in genes related to inflammation and lipid metabolism.
Takeaway
This study shows that giving melatonin to older mice helps them not gain as much fat and reduces inflammation when they eat a lot of fatty foods.
Methodology
The study used male C57BL/6J mice, dividing them into groups based on age and diet, and assessed changes in body weight, fat tissue, inflammation markers, and gene expression.
Limitations
The study used a specific mouse strain that may not represent all genetic backgrounds, and the effects of a high-fat diet on eWAT need further investigation.
Participant Demographics
Male C57BL/6J mice, young (2 months) and aged (18 months).
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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