Gene Expression in Adipocytes During Obesity: Understanding Challenges and Future Prospects
A special issue of Cells (ISSN 2073-4409).
Deadline for manuscript submissions: 10 March 2026 | Viewed by 10
Special Issue Editor
Special Issue Information
Dear Colleagues,
Gene expression in adipocytes plays a pivotal role in the development and progression of obesity and its associated metabolic complications. Adipose tissue, once viewed primarily as an energy storage organ, is now recognized as a highly dynamic endocrine organ that secretes numerous adipokines and cytokines, influencing systemic metabolism, inflammation, and insulin sensitivity. In obesity, adipocytes undergo significant changes in size, number, and functionality, leading to altered gene expression profiles that contribute to chronic low-grade inflammation and insulin resistance. Understanding these molecular alterations is crucial for unraveling the complex pathophysiology of obesity. However, research in this area faces significant challenges, including the heterogeneity of adipose tissue and the interplay between genetic predispositions and (micro-)environmental factors (e.g., hypoxia). Future prospects lie in employing advanced genomic and proteomic technologies, single-cell analysis, and computational modeling to dissect the intricate regulatory networks governing gene expression in adipocytes during obesity, ultimately paving the way for novel therapeutic interventions.
The objective of this Special Issue is therefore to shed light on adipocyte pathophysiology on a genetic basis. For this issue, both original research articles and reviews are welcome. Research areas may include (but are not limited to) the following:
- Epigenetic modifications and transcription factors in adipocytes;
- Uncovering depot-specific differences in gene expression patterns;
- Therapeutic targeting of gene expression to ameliorate obesity.
We look forward to receiving your contributions.
Dr. Markus Mandl
Guest Editor
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Keywords
- adipocytes
- adipose tissue
- obesity
- hypoxia
- transcription factor
- metabolism
- epigenetics
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