HNF4α

Benfluorex hydrochloride consistently activates insulin promoter activity as measured by an increased number of GFP-positive cells. Benfluorex hydrochloride increases the number of GFP-positive cells in a dose-responsive manner and increases the level of endogenous insulin mRNA. Consistent with being HNF4α activator, Benfluorex hydrochloride stimulates HNF4α expression. Benfluorex hydrochloride alters HNF4α protease sensitivity, while the inactive control compound does not. Benfluorex hydrochloride decreases, in a concentration-dependent manner, the synthesis of acid-soluble products and ketone bodies from oleate, whereas the production of ¹⁴ CO ₂ into citric acid cycle is markedly increased by Benfluorex hydrochloride. Benfluorex hydrochloride inhibits in a dose-dependent manner the rates of gluconeogenesis from lactate/pyruvate (10/1 nM).