Actions of natural products in regulating lipid metabolism through activating AMP-activated protein kinase: Research advances / 国际药学研究杂志

ABSTRACT

AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is an energy sensor playing a key role in regulation of cellular metabolism. When activated by increased intracellular AMP/ATP ratio or by other factors, AMPK promotes the oxidation of fatty acid, increases energy production and improves glucose uptake and use. Meanwhile, it inhibits glycogen synthesis, gluconeogenesis and lipid synthesis, thus reducing energy consumption and keeping the balance of cell energy metabolism. There are many natural products with regulating lipid metabolism such as flavones, saponins, and alkaloids. Their mechanisms of regulating lipid metabolism are different. In recent years, many natural products with AMPK-activating activity have been identified. This paper reviews the research progress in the actions of natural products in regulating lipid metabolism through activation of AMPK.