Adipose Tissue and Metabolic Disease

Dear Colleague,

Adipose tissue plays a crucial role in energy homeostasis, storing excess energy in the form of lipids and releasing it when needed. However, in obesity, the expansion of adipose tissue can lead to metabolic dysfunction and inflammation. Hormones play a critical role in regulating adipose tissue development, function, and metabolism. Adipose tissue is the primary target of insulin, which promotes glucose uptake and lipid storage. Leptin, one of the best-known adipocyte-released hormone, controls energy balance and appetite, suppressing food intake and increasing energy expenditure. Adiponectin, another adipokine, has insulin-sensitizing and anti-inflammatory effects, protecting against metabolic disorders. Moreover, sex hormones such as estrogen and testosterone influence adipose tissue distribution and metabolism. Dysregulation of hormone signaling in obesity disrupts the fine-tuned feedback mechanisms that maintain energy balance, leading to excessive fat storage, insulin resistance, and inflammation. Understanding the complex interactions between hormones and adipose tissue in the context of obesity is crucial for developing effective therapies to combat its associated health risks, such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. Here, we review the current literature on adipose tissue regulation and obesity, including the molecular mechanisms that control adipogenesis, lipogenesis, lipolysis, and adipose tissue inflammation in both animals and humans. The role of adipokines, hormones secreted by adipose tissue, in regulating energy metabolism and inflammation is discussed, as well as the contribution of genetics and epigenetics in adipose tissue regulation. Additionally, the potential therapeutic strategies for obesity treatment based on adipose tissue regulation are also examined. In summary, we highlight the importance of future research in adipose tissue regulation and obesity to address the current health crisis.

Prof. Dr. Mathias Z. Strowski
Dr. Paweł A. A. Kołodziejski
Dr. Marek Skrzypski
Guest Editors

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