4′-Hydroxyflavanone suppresses activation of sterol regulatory element-binding proteins and de novo lipid synthesis

Sterol regulatory element-binding proteins (SREBPs) are major transcription factors that regulate the expression of genes involved in fatty acid and cholesterol biosynthesis. Here we show that 4′-hydroxyflavanone (4′-HF) impairs the fatty acid synthase promoter activity and reduces the activation of SREBPs and their target gene expression in human hepatoma Huh-7 cells. Moreover, 4′-HF suppresses de novo fatty acid and cholesterol synthesis. This study identifies 4′-HF as an inhibitor of SREBP maturation and lipid synthesis, and provides evidence that 4′-HF may have major potential as a pharmaceutical preparation against hepatic steatosis and dyslipidemia.

► 4′-HF reduces the activation of SREBP and their target gene expression. ► 4′-HF suppresses de novo fatty acid and cholesterol synthesis. ► 4′-HF may have major potential as a pharmaceutical preparation against steatosis.