Sulfation of chitosan oligomers enhances their anti-adipogenic effect in 3T3-L1 adipocytes

► In this study sulfated derivative of chitosan oligomers is synthesized. ► Sulfated chitosan oligomers were showed to inhibit adipogenesis. ► Chitosan oligomers and derivative were compared in terms of anti-adipogenesis effect. ► Inhibition mechanism was highlighted by the changes of key adipogenic factors.