Mealworm-Derived Protein Hydrolysates Enhance Adipogenic Differentiation via Mitotic Clonal Expansion in 3T3-L1 Cells

This study explores the impact of mealworm-derived protein hydrolysates (Fh-T) on adipogenic differentiation in 3T3-L1 cells, particularly during the mitotic clonal expansion phase. Fh-T significantly promotes adipocyte differentiation and enhances adiponectin expression without cytotoxicity at concentrations of 200-800 μg/mL. It upregulates key adipogenic transcription factors like PPARγ and C/EBPα and increases the expression of adipocyte markers. Fh-T enhances adipogenesis when combined with MDI by promoting cell cycle progression, linked to increased C/EBPδ and decreased p27 expression. The study suggests Fh-T's potential in metabolic health management and as a bioactive ingredient in cosmeceuticals and regenerative therapies, including possible applications in hair growth.