Oleate rescues INS-1E β-cells from palmitate-induced apoptosis by preventing activation of the unfolded protein response

In this project I sought to analyse the effects of different free fatty acids (FFAs) on INS-1E β-cells. The saturated fatty acid palmitate is considered toxic whereas the monounsaturated fatty acid oleate is harmless. In my working hypothesis I assumed an additional protective effect of oleate when used in combination with palmitate. Furthermore I aimed to explore in detail the possible causes and signalling pathways responsible for apoptosis or sustained cell survival. I examined the Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER) stress response, called unfolded protein response (UPR), as one essential criterion deciding about cell death or life. Analysis of viability and apoptosis confirmed the deleterious effect of palmitate on INS-1E β-cells after 24h of incubation. Oleate proved not to be harmful and even reversed the toxicity of palmitate. When the main components of the UPR were assessed using Western blot analyses and quantitative PCR was performed I found positive proof that palmitate activated the UPR and ultimately led to apoptosis. By contrast, oleate completely prevented UPR signalling. I conclude that oleate rescues INS-1E β-cells by inhibiting ER stress and its signalling