As mentioned previously, forskohlin is known as a compound with versatile biological actions based on its ability to stimulate adenylate cyclase and cyclic AMP levels.

Typically, an increase in cyclic AMP leads to subsequent activation of protein kinase. Protein kinase has been shown to activate the hormone sensitive lipase which is involved in the breakdown of triglycerides, known as building blocks of fatty tissue1.

The other factor relevant to the weight loss mechanism of forskohlin involves its thyroid stimulating action, comparable in strength to thyrotropin or TSH2. The thyroid stimulating action of forskohlin may also contribute to the increase in the metabolic rate and thermogenesis.

Forskohlin may also be involved in regulating insulin secretion3. Insulin, although well recognized for its metabolism of carbohydrates, is also involved in the metabolism of fats and proteins that are major contributors to body composition

Reference:

1. Allen, D.O. et al. (1986) Relationships between cyclic AMP levels and lipolysis in fat cells after isoproterenol and forskohlin stimulation. The Journal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics. 238(2): 659-664.

2. Haye, B. et al. (1985) Chronic and acute effects of forskohlin on isolated thyroid cell metabolism. Molecular and Cellular Endocrinology. 43:41-50.

3. Yajima H. et al (1999) cAMP enhances insulin secretion by an action on the ATP-sensitive K+ channel-independent pathway of glucose signaling in rat pancreatic islets. Diabetes 48(5):1006-12