General description

Lipolysis is the process of hydrolyzing triglycerides to free fatty acids and glycerol. This process involves the action of adipose TG lipase (ATGL), hormone-sensitive lipase (HSL), and monoglyceride lipase. Lipolysis maintains the energy balance during fasting and exercise by providing a substrate for oxidative metabolism. Lipolysis is regulated by nutritional factors and hormones. Problems with the regulation of lipolysis is associated with obesity, diabetes, and metabolic syndromes.

Principle

The Lipolysis (3T3-L1) Colorimetric Assay Kit contains a synthetic catecholamine (isoproterenol) that activates β-adrenergic receptors. This activates adenylate cyclase, converting ATP to cAMP. cAMP then activates the hydrolysis of triglycerides by hormone-sensitive lipase. Lipolysis is determined by measuring a colorimetric product with absorbance at 570 nm (A570) proportional to the amount of glycerol present.

Suitability

Suitable for the measurement of lipolysis in 3T3-L1 and adipocytes.