1
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Yadav MK, Ishida M, Gogoleva N, Liao CW, Salim FN, Kanai M, Kuno A, Hayashi T, Shahri ZJ, Kulathunga K, Samir O, Lyu W, Olivia O, Mbanefo EC, Takahashi S, Hamada M. MAFB in macrophages regulates cold-induced neuronal density in brown adipose tissue. Cell Rep 2024; 43:113978. [PMID: 38522069 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2024.113978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Revised: 01/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Transcription factor MAFB regulates various homeostatic functions of macrophages. This study explores the role of MAFB in brown adipose tissue (BAT) thermogenesis using macrophage-specific Mafb-deficient (Mafbf/f::LysM-Cre) mice. We find that Mafb deficiency in macrophages reduces thermogenesis, energy expenditure, and sympathetic neuron (SN) density in BAT under cold conditions. This phenotype features a proinflammatory environment that is characterized by macrophage/granulocyte accumulation, increases in interleukin-6 (IL-6) production, and IL-6 trans-signaling, which lead to decreases in nerve growth factor (NGF) expression and reduction in SN density in BAT. We confirm MAFB regulation of IL-6 expression using luciferase readout driven by IL-6 promoter in RAW-264.7 macrophage cell lines. Immunohistochemistry shows clustered organization of NGF-producing cells in BAT, which are primarily TRPV1+ vascular smooth muscle cells, as additionally shown using single-cell RNA sequencing and RT-qPCR of the stromal vascular fraction. Treating Mafbf/f::LysM-Cre mice with anti-IL-6 receptor antibody rescues SN density, body temperature, and energy expenditure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manoj Kumar Yadav
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba 305-8575, Japan; Ph.D. Program in Human Biology, School of Integrative and Global Majors, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba 305-8575, Japan; National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Megumi Ishida
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba 305-8575, Japan
| | - Natalia Gogoleva
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba 305-8575, Japan; Ph.D. Program in Human Biology, School of Integrative and Global Majors, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba 305-8575, Japan
| | - Ching-Wei Liao
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba 305-8575, Japan; Ph.D. Program in Human Biology, School of Integrative and Global Majors, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba 305-8575, Japan
| | - Filiani Natalia Salim
- Centre for Medical Science and Technology and Healthcare Equity, Parahyangan Catholic University, Bandung 40141, Indonesia
| | - Maho Kanai
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba 305-8575, Japan; Ph.D. Program in Human Biology, School of Integrative and Global Majors, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba 305-8575, Japan
| | - Akihiro Kuno
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba 305-8575, Japan
| | - Takuto Hayashi
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba 305-8575, Japan; Graduate School of Comprehensive Human Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba 305-8575, Japan
| | - Zeynab Javanfekr Shahri
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba 305-8575, Japan; Ph.D. Program in Human Biology, School of Integrative and Global Majors, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba 305-8575, Japan
| | - Kaushalya Kulathunga
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba 305-8575, Japan; Ph.D. Program in Human Biology, School of Integrative and Global Majors, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba 305-8575, Japan
| | - Omar Samir
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt; Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Jeff and Penny Vinik Center for Allergic Disease Research, Division of Rheumatology, Immunology, and Allergy, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Wenxin Lyu
- Ph.D. Program in Human Biology, School of Integrative and Global Majors, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba 305-8575, Japan; Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba 305-8575, Japan; Department of Immunology and Microbiology, LEO Foundation Skin Immunology Research Center, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Olivia Olivia
- Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Padjadjaran, Sumedang 45363, Indonesia
| | | | - Satoru Takahashi
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba 305-8575, Japan; Laboratory Animal Resource Center (LARC), Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba 305-8575, Japan; International Institute for Integrative Sleep Medicine (WPI-IIIS), University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba 305-8575, Japan; Life Science Center for Survival Dynamics, Tsukuba Advanced Research Alliance, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba 305-8575, Japan.
| | - Michito Hamada
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba 305-8575, Japan; Laboratory Animal Resource Center (LARC), Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba 305-8575, Japan.
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Ren W, Hua M, Cao F, Zeng W. The Sympathetic-Immune Milieu in Metabolic Health and Diseases: Insights from Pancreas, Liver, Intestine, and Adipose Tissues. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2306128. [PMID: 38039489 PMCID: PMC10885671 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202306128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Revised: 10/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/03/2023]
Abstract
Sympathetic innervation plays a crucial role in maintaining energy balance and contributes to metabolic pathophysiology. Recent evidence has begun to uncover the innervation landscape of sympathetic projections and sheds light on their important functions in metabolic activities. Additionally, the immune system has long been studied for its essential roles in metabolic health and diseases. In this review, the aim is to provide an overview of the current research progress on the sympathetic regulation of key metabolic organs, including the pancreas, liver, intestine, and adipose tissues. In particular, efforts are made to highlight the critical roles of the peripheral nervous system and its potential interplay with immune components. Overall, it is hoped to underscore the importance of studying metabolic organs from a comprehensive and interconnected perspective, which will provide valuable insights into the complex mechanisms underlying metabolic regulation and may lead to novel therapeutic strategies for metabolic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenran Ren
- Institute for Immunology and School of MedicineTsinghua Universityand Tsinghua‐Peking Center for Life SciencesBeijing100084China
| | - Meng Hua
- Institute for Immunology and School of MedicineTsinghua Universityand Tsinghua‐Peking Center for Life SciencesBeijing100084China
| | - Fang Cao
- Department of NeurosurgeryAffiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical UniversityZunyiGuizhou563000China
| | - Wenwen Zeng
- Institute for Immunology and School of MedicineTsinghua Universityand Tsinghua‐Peking Center for Life SciencesBeijing100084China
- SXMU‐Tsinghua Collaborative Innovation Center for Frontier MedicineTaiyuan030001China
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Immunological Research on Chronic DiseasesBeijing100084China
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3
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Ziqubu K, Dludla PV, Mabhida SE, Jack BU, Keipert S, Jastroch M, Mazibuko-Mbeje SE. Brown adipose tissue-derived metabolites and their role in regulating metabolism. Metabolism 2024; 150:155709. [PMID: 37866810 DOI: 10.1016/j.metabol.2023.155709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
The discovery and rejuvenation of metabolically active brown adipose tissue (BAT) in adult humans have offered a new approach to treat obesity and metabolic diseases. Beyond its accomplished role in adaptive thermogenesis, BAT secretes signaling molecules known as "batokines", which are instrumental in regulating whole-body metabolism via autocrine, paracrine, and endocrine action. In addition to the intrinsic BAT metabolite-oxidizing activity, the endocrine functions of these molecules may help to explain the association between BAT activity and a healthy systemic metabolic profile. Herein, we review the evidence that underscores the significance of BAT-derived metabolites, especially highlighting their role in controlling physiological and metabolic processes involving thermogenesis, substrate metabolism, and other essential biological processes. The conversation extends to their capacity to enhance energy expenditure and mitigate features of obesity and its related metabolic complications. Thus, metabolites derived from BAT may provide new avenues for the discovery of metabolic health-promoting drugs with far-reaching impacts. This review aims to dissect the complexities of the secretory role of BAT in modulating local and systemic metabolism in metabolic health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khanyisani Ziqubu
- Department of Biochemistry, North-West University, Mmabatho 2745, South Africa
| | - Phiwayinkosi V Dludla
- Cochrane South Africa, South African Medical Research Council, Tygerberg 7505, South Africa; Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Faculty of Science and Agriculture, University of Zululand, KwaDlangezwa 3886, South Africa
| | - Sihle E Mabhida
- Non-Communicable Diseases Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Tygerberg 7505, South Africa
| | - Babalwa U Jack
- Biomedical Research and Innovation Platform, South African Medical Research Council, Tygerberg 7505, South Africa
| | - Susanne Keipert
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The Wenner-Gren Institute, Stockholm University, SE-106 91 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Martin Jastroch
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The Wenner-Gren Institute, Stockholm University, SE-106 91 Stockholm, Sweden
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4
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Wang S, Liu Y, Chen J, He Y, Ma W, Liu X, Sun X. Effects of multi-organ crosstalk on the physiology and pathology of adipose tissue. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1198984. [PMID: 37383400 PMCID: PMC10293893 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1198984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023] Open
Abstract
In previous studies, adipocytes were found to play an important role in regulating whole-body nutrition and energy balance, and are also important in energy metabolism, hormone secretion, and immune regulation. Different adipocytes have different contributions to the body, with white adipocytes primarily storing energy and brown adipocytes producing heat. Recently discovered beige adipocytes, which have characteristics in between white and brown adipocytes, also have the potential to produce heat. Adipocytes interact with other cells in the microenvironment to promote blood vessel growth and immune and neural network interactions. Adipose tissue plays an important role in obesity, metabolic syndrome, and type 2 diabetes. Dysfunction in adipose tissue endocrine and immune regulation can cause and promote the occurrence and development of related diseases. Adipose tissue can also secrete multiple cytokines, which can interact with organs; however, previous studies have not comprehensively summarized the interaction between adipose tissue and other organs. This article reviews the effect of multi-organ crosstalk on the physiology and pathology of adipose tissue, including interactions between the central nervous system, heart, liver, skeletal muscle, and intestines, as well as the mechanisms of adipose tissue in the development of various diseases and its role in disease treatment. It emphasizes the importance of a deeper understanding of these mechanisms for the prevention and treatment of related diseases. Determining these mechanisms has enormous potential for identifying new targets for treating diabetes, metabolic disorders, and cardiovascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sufen Wang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Diagnostics, The First Dongguan Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, China
- Institute of Aging Research, School of Medical Technology, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, China
| | - Yifan Liu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Diagnostics, The First Dongguan Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, China
- Institute of Aging Research, School of Medical Technology, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, China
| | - Jiaqi Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Diagnostics, The First Dongguan Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, China
- Institute of Aging Research, School of Medical Technology, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, China
| | - Yuejing He
- Clinical Laboratory, Dongguan Eighth People’s Hospital, Dongguan, China
| | - Wanrui Ma
- Department of General Medicine, The First Dongguan Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, China
| | - Xinguang Liu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Diagnostics, The First Dongguan Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, China
- Institute of Aging Research, School of Medical Technology, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, China
| | - Xuerong Sun
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Diagnostics, The First Dongguan Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, China
- Institute of Aging Research, School of Medical Technology, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, China
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5
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Saito M, Okamatsu-Ogura Y. Thermogenic Brown Fat in Humans: Implications in Energy Homeostasis, Obesity and Metabolic Disorders. World J Mens Health 2023:41.e26. [PMID: 36792089 DOI: 10.5534/wjmh.220224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
In mammals including humans, there are two types of adipose tissue, white and brown adipose tissues (BATs). White adipose tissue is the primary site of energy storage, while BAT is a specialized tissue for non-shivering thermogenesis to dissipate energy as heat. Although BAT research has long been limited mostly in small rodents, the rediscovery of metabolically active BAT in adult humans has dramatically promoted the translational studies on BAT in health and diseases. It is now established that BAT, through its thermogenic and energy dissipating activities, plays a role in the regulation of body temperature, whole-body energy expenditure, and body fatness. Moreover, increasing evidence has demonstrated that BAT secretes various paracrine and endocrine factors, which influence other peripheral tissues and control systemic metabolic homeostasis, suggesting BAT as a metabolic regulator, other than for thermogenesis. In fact, clinical studies have revealed an association of BAT not only with metabolic disorders such as insulin resistance, diabetes, dyslipidemia, and fatty liver, but also with cardiovascular diseases including hypertension and atherosclerosis. Thus, BAT is an intriguing tissue combating obesity and related metabolic diseases. In this review, we summarize current knowledge on human BAT, focusing its patho-physiological roles in energy homeostasis, obesity and related metabolic disorders. The effects of aging and sex on BAT are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masayuki Saito
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan.
| | - Yuko Okamatsu-Ogura
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
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Lecoutre S, Lambert M, Drygalski K, Dugail I, Maqdasy S, Hautefeuille M, Clément K. Importance of the Microenvironment and Mechanosensing in Adipose Tissue Biology. Cells 2022; 11:cells11152310. [PMID: 35954152 PMCID: PMC9367348 DOI: 10.3390/cells11152310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2022] [Revised: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 07/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The expansion of adipose tissue is an adaptive mechanism that increases nutrient buffering capacity in response to an overall positive energy balance. Over the course of expansion, the adipose microenvironment undergoes continual remodeling to maintain its structural and functional integrity. However, in the long run, adipose tissue remodeling, typically characterized by adipocyte hypertrophy, immune cells infiltration, fibrosis and changes in vascular architecture, generates mechanical stress on adipose cells. This mechanical stimulus is then transduced into a biochemical signal that alters adipose function through mechanotransduction. In this review, we describe the physical changes occurring during adipose tissue remodeling, and how they regulate adipose cell physiology and promote obesity-associated dysfunction in adipose tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Lecoutre
- Nutrition and Obesities: Systemic Approaches Research Group (Nutri-Omics), Sorbonne Université, INSERM, F-75013 Paris, France; (S.L.); (K.D.); (I.D.)
| | - Mélanie Lambert
- Labex Inflamex, Université Sorbonne Paris Nord, INSERM, F-93000 Bobigny, France;
| | - Krzysztof Drygalski
- Nutrition and Obesities: Systemic Approaches Research Group (Nutri-Omics), Sorbonne Université, INSERM, F-75013 Paris, France; (S.L.); (K.D.); (I.D.)
| | - Isabelle Dugail
- Nutrition and Obesities: Systemic Approaches Research Group (Nutri-Omics), Sorbonne Université, INSERM, F-75013 Paris, France; (S.L.); (K.D.); (I.D.)
| | - Salwan Maqdasy
- Department of Medicine (H7), Karolinska Institutet Hospital, C2-94, 14186 Stockholm, Sweden;
| | - Mathieu Hautefeuille
- Laboratoire de Biologie du Développement (UMR 7622), IBPS, Sorbonne Université, F-75005 Paris, France;
| | - Karine Clément
- Nutrition and Obesities: Systemic Approaches Research Group (Nutri-Omics), Sorbonne Université, INSERM, F-75013 Paris, France; (S.L.); (K.D.); (I.D.)
- Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris, Nutrition Department, CRNH Ile-de-France, Pitié-Salpêtrière Hospital, F-75013 Paris, France
- Correspondence: or
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Kihara-Negishi F, Ohkura N, Takahashi Y, Fujita T, Nakamura Y, Maruyama K, Oshitari T, Yamaguchi S. Nobiletin and 3′-Demethyl Nobiletin Activate Brown Adipocytes upon β-Adrenergic Stimulation. Biol Pharm Bull 2022; 45:528-533. [DOI: 10.1248/bpb.b21-00988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Gavaldà-Navarro A, Villarroya J, Cereijo R, Giralt M, Villarroya F. The endocrine role of brown adipose tissue: An update on actors and actions. Rev Endocr Metab Disord 2022; 23:31-41. [PMID: 33712997 DOI: 10.1007/s11154-021-09640-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, brown adipose tissue (BAT) has been recognized not only as a main site of non-shivering thermogenesis in mammals, but also as an endocrine organ. BAT secretes a myriad of regulatory factors. These so-called batokines exert local autocrine and paracrine effects, as well as endocrine actions targeting tissues and organs at a distance. The endocrine batokines include peptide factors, such as fibroblast growth factor-21 (FGF21), neuregulin-4 (NRG4), phospholipid transfer protein (PLTP), interleukin-6, adiponectin and myostatin, and also lipids (lipokines; e.g., 12,13-dihydroxy-9Z-octadecenoic acid [12,13-diHOME]) and miRNAs (e.g., miR-99b). The liver, heart, and skeletal muscle are the most commonly reported targets of batokines. In response to BAT thermogenic activation, batokines such as NRG4 and PLTP are released and act to reduce hepatic steatosis and improve insulin sensitivity. Stress-induced interleukin-6-mediated signaling from BAT to liver favors hepatic glucose production through enhanced gluconeogenesis. Batokines may act on liver to induce the secretion of regulatory hepatokines (e.g. FGF21 and bile acids in response to miR-99b and PLTP, respectively), thereby resulting in a systemic expansion of BAT-originating signals. Batokines also target extrahepatic tissues: FGF21 and 12,13-diHOME are cardioprotective, whereas BAT-secreted myostatin and 12,13-diHOME influence skeletal muscle development and performance. Further research is needed to ascertain in humans the role of batokines, which have been identified mostly in experimental models. The endocrine role of BAT may explain the association between active BAT and a healthy metabolism in the human system, which is characterized by small amounts of BAT and a likely moderate BAT-mediated energy expenditure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleix Gavaldà-Navarro
- Departament de Bioquimica I Biomedicina Molecular, and Institut de Biomedicina de La Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
- Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, Esplugues, Catalonia, Spain
- CIBER Fisiopatología de La Obesidad Y Nutrición, Madrid, Spain
| | - Joan Villarroya
- Departament de Bioquimica I Biomedicina Molecular, and Institut de Biomedicina de La Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
- Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, Esplugues, Catalonia, Spain
- CIBER Fisiopatología de La Obesidad Y Nutrición, Madrid, Spain
| | - Rubén Cereijo
- Departament de Bioquimica I Biomedicina Molecular, and Institut de Biomedicina de La Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
- CIBER Fisiopatología de La Obesidad Y Nutrición, Madrid, Spain
- Institut de Recerca Hospital de La Santa Creu I Sant Pau, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marta Giralt
- Departament de Bioquimica I Biomedicina Molecular, and Institut de Biomedicina de La Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
- Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, Esplugues, Catalonia, Spain
- CIBER Fisiopatología de La Obesidad Y Nutrición, Madrid, Spain
| | - Francesc Villarroya
- Departament de Bioquimica I Biomedicina Molecular, and Institut de Biomedicina de La Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain.
- Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, Esplugues, Catalonia, Spain.
- CIBER Fisiopatología de La Obesidad Y Nutrición, Madrid, Spain.
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Pinckard KM, Stanford KI. The Heartwarming Effect of Brown Adipose Tissue. Mol Pharmacol 2021; 102:460-471. [PMID: 34933905 PMCID: PMC9341250 DOI: 10.1124/molpharm.121.000328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Brown adipose tissue (BAT) is a metabolically active tissue that improves glucose metabolism and protects against the development of type 2 diabetes and obesity. However, the role of BAT to improve cardiovascular health has only recently been investigated. In this review, we discuss multiple mechanisms through which both the thermogenic and endocrine functions of BAT mediate cardiac health. β-adrenergic stimulation activates the thermogenic function of BAT, resulting in reduced circulating lipids and glucose, and enhanced clearance of hepatic cholesterol-enriched remnants leading to reduced atherosclerotic region size. Additionally, the thermogenic role of BAT has been implicated in activation of the protein kinase B-extracellular-signal-regulated kinase (ERK) 1/2 pathway after myocardial infarction (MI), contributing to reduced injury size. The endocrine function of BAT has also been implicated to improve both systemic metabolic health and cardiac health. Specifically, the batokines fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) and 12,13-diHOME improve cardiovascular health via reduced hypertension, hypertrophy and MI injury size (FGF21) or by directly improving cardiac function via calcium cycling (12,13-diHOME). Finally, we discuss relevant pharmacological treatment methods currently aiming to activate BAT, typically through sympathetic activation.
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Shamsi F, Wang CH, Tseng YH. The evolving view of thermogenic adipocytes - ontogeny, niche and function. Nat Rev Endocrinol 2021; 17:726-744. [PMID: 34625737 PMCID: PMC8814904 DOI: 10.1038/s41574-021-00562-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The worldwide incidence of obesity and its sequelae, such as type 2 diabetes mellitus, have reached pandemic levels. Central to the development of these metabolic disorders is adipose tissue. White adipose tissue stores excess energy, whereas brown adipose tissue (BAT) and beige (also known as brite) adipose tissue dissipate energy to generate heat in a process known as thermogenesis. Strategies that activate and expand BAT and beige adipose tissue increase energy expenditure in animal models and offer therapeutic promise to treat obesity. A better understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying the development of BAT and beige adipose tissue and the activation of thermogenic function is the key to creating practical therapeutic interventions for obesity and metabolic disorders. In this Review, we discuss the regulation of the tissue microenvironment (the adipose niche) and inter-organ communication between BAT and other tissues. We also cover the activation of BAT and beige adipose tissue in response to physiological cues (such as cold exposure, exercise and diet). We highlight advances in harnessing the therapeutic potential of BAT and beige adipose tissue by genetic, pharmacological and cell-based approaches in obesity and metabolic disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farnaz Shamsi
- Section on Integrative Physiology and Metabolism, Joslin Diabetes Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Molecular Pathobiology, New York University College of Dentistry, New York, NY, USA
| | - Chih-Hao Wang
- Section on Integrative Physiology and Metabolism, Joslin Diabetes Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Hua Tseng
- Section on Integrative Physiology and Metabolism, Joslin Diabetes Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
- Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA.
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Yuko OO, Saito M. Brown Fat as a Regulator of Systemic Metabolism beyond Thermogenesis. Diabetes Metab J 2021; 45:840-852. [PMID: 34176254 PMCID: PMC8640153 DOI: 10.4093/dmj.2020.0291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2020] [Accepted: 01/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Brown adipose tissue (BAT) is a specialized tissue for nonshivering thermogenesis to dissipate energy as heat. Although BAT research has long been limited mostly in small rodents, the rediscovery of metabolically active BAT in adult humans has dramatically promoted the translational studies on BAT in health and diseases. Moreover, several remarkable advancements have been made in brown fat biology over the past decade: The molecular and functional analyses of inducible thermogenic adipocytes (socalled beige adipocytes) arising from a developmentally different lineage from classical brown adipocytes have been accelerated. In addition to a well-established thermogenic activity of uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1), several alternative thermogenic mechanisms have been discovered, particularly in beige adipocytes. It has become clear that BAT influences other peripheral tissues and controls their functions and systemic homeostasis of energy and metabolic substrates, suggesting BAT as a metabolic regulator, other than for thermogenesis. This notion is supported by discovering that various paracrine and endocrine factors are secreted from BAT. We review the current understanding of BAT pathophysiology, particularly focusing on its role as a metabolic regulator in small rodents and also in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Masayuki Saito
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
- Department of Nutrition, Tenshi College, Sapporo, Japan
- Corresponding author: Masayuki Saito https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3058-3003 Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-0818, Japan E-mail:
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Ahmad B, Vohra MS, Saleemi MA, Serpell CJ, Fong IL, Wong EH. Brown/Beige adipose tissues and the emerging role of their secretory factors in improving metabolic health: The batokines. Biochimie 2021; 184:26-39. [PMID: 33548390 DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2021.01.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2020] [Revised: 12/22/2020] [Accepted: 01/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Brown and beige adipose tissues are the primary sites for adaptive non-shivering thermogenesis. Although they have been known principally for their thermogenic effects, in recent years, it has emerged that, just like white adipose tissue (WAT), brown and beige adipose tissues also play an important role in the regulation of metabolic health through secretion of various brown adipokines (batokines) in response to various physiological cues. These secreted batokines target distant organs and tissues such as the liver, heart, skeletal muscles, brain, WAT, and perform various local and systemic functions in an autocrine, paracrine, or endocrine manner. Brown and beige adipose tissues are therefore now receiving increasing levels of attention with respect to their effects on various other organs and tissues. Identification of novel secreted factors by these tissues may help in the discovery of drug candidates for the treatment of various metabolic disorders such as obesity, type-2 diabetes, skeletal deformities, cardiovascular diseases, dyslipidemia. In this review, we comprehensively describe the emerging secretory role of brown/beige adipose tissues and the metabolic effects of various brown/beige adipose tissues secreted factors on other organs and tissues in endocrine/paracrine manners, and as well as on brown/beige adipose tissue itself in an autocrine manner. This will provide insights into understanding the potential secretory role of brown/beige adipose tissues in improving metabolic health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bilal Ahmad
- School of Biosciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Taylor's University Lakeside Campus, Subang Jaya, 47500, Malaysia
| | - Muhammad Sufyan Vohra
- School of Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Taylor's University Lakeside Campus, Subang Jaya, 47500, Malaysia
| | - Mansab Ali Saleemi
- School of Biosciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Taylor's University Lakeside Campus, Subang Jaya, 47500, Malaysia
| | - Christopher J Serpell
- School of Physical Sciences, Ingram Building, University of Kent, Canterbury, Kent, CT2 7NH, United Kingdom
| | - Isabel Lim Fong
- Department of Paraclinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS), Kota Samarahan, Sarawak, 94300, Malaysia
| | - Eng Hwa Wong
- School of Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Taylor's University Lakeside Campus, Subang Jaya, 47500, Malaysia.
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Ding XW, Li R, Geetha T, Tao YX, Babu JR. Nerve growth factor in metabolic complications and Alzheimer's disease: Physiology and therapeutic potential. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2020; 1866:165858. [PMID: 32531260 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2020.165858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2020] [Revised: 05/11/2020] [Accepted: 06/02/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
As the population ages, obesity and metabolic complications as well as neurological disorders are becoming more prevalent, with huge economic burdens on both societies and families. New therapeutics are urgently needed. Nerve growth factor (NGF), first discovered in 1950s, is a neurotrophic factor involved in regulating cell proliferation, growth, survival, and apoptosis in both central and peripheral nervous systems. NGF and its precursor, proNGF, bind to TrkA and p75 receptors and initiate protein phosphorylation cascades, resulting in changes of cellular functions, and are associated with obesity, diabetes and its complications, and Alzheimer's disease. In this article, we summarize changes in NGF levels in metabolic and neuronal disorders, the signal transduction initiated by NGF and proNGF, the physiological and pathophysiological relevance, and therapeutic potential in treating chronic metabolic diseases and cognitive decline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Wen Ding
- Department of Nutrition, Dietetics, and Hospitality Management, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
| | - Rongzi Li
- Department of Nutrition, Dietetics, and Hospitality Management, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
| | - Thangiah Geetha
- Department of Nutrition, Dietetics, and Hospitality Management, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA; Boshell Metabolic Diseases and Diabetes Program, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
| | - Ya-Xiong Tao
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA.
| | - Jeganathan Ramesh Babu
- Department of Nutrition, Dietetics, and Hospitality Management, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA; Boshell Metabolic Diseases and Diabetes Program, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA.
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14
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Mechanisms linking adipose tissue inflammation to cardiac hypertrophy and fibrosis. Clin Sci (Lond) 2020; 133:2329-2344. [PMID: 31777927 DOI: 10.1042/cs20190578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2019] [Revised: 11/08/2019] [Accepted: 11/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Adipose tissue is classically recognized as the primary site of lipid storage, but in recent years has garnered appreciation for its broad role as an endocrine organ comprising multiple cell types whose collective secretome, termed as adipokines, is highly interdependent on metabolic homeostasis and inflammatory state. Anatomical location (e.g. visceral, subcutaneous, epicardial etc) and cellular composition of adipose tissue (e.g. white, beige, and brown adipocytes, macrophages etc.) also plays a critical role in determining its response to metabolic state, the resulting secretome, and its potential impact on remote tissues. Compared with other tissues, the heart has an extremely high and constant demand for energy generation, of which most is derived from oxidation of fatty acids. Availability of this fatty acid fuel source is dependent on adipose tissue, but evidence is mounting that adipose tissue plays a much broader role in cardiovascular physiology. In this review, we discuss the impact of the brown, subcutaneous, and visceral white, perivascular (PVAT), and epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) secretome on the development and progression of cardiovascular disease (CVD), with a particular focus on cardiac hypertrophy and fibrosis.
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Darcy J, Tseng YH. ComBATing aging-does increased brown adipose tissue activity confer longevity? GeroScience 2019; 41:285-296. [PMID: 31230192 DOI: 10.1007/s11357-019-00076-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2019] [Accepted: 05/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Brown and its related beige adipose tissue (BAT) play a definitive role in maintaining body temperature by producing heat through uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1), which acts by dissociating oxidative phosphorylation from ATP production, resulting in the release of heat. Therefore, in order to maintain high thermogenic capacity, BAT must act as a metabolic sink by taking up vast amounts of circulating glucose and lipids for oxidation. This, along with the rediscovery of BAT in adult humans, has fueled the study of BAT as a putative therapeutic approach to manage the growing rates of obesity and metabolic syndromes. Notably, many of the beneficial consequences of BAT activity overlap with metabolic biomarkers of extended lifespan and healthspan. In this review, we provide background about BAT including the thermogenic program, BAT's role as a secretory organ, and differences between BAT in mice and humans. We also provide details on BAT during aging, and perspectives on the potential of targeting BAT to promote lifespan and healthspan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin Darcy
- Section on Integrative Physiology and Metabolism, Joslin Diabetes Center, Harvard Medical School, One Joslin Place, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Yu-Hua Tseng
- Section on Integrative Physiology and Metabolism, Joslin Diabetes Center, Harvard Medical School, One Joslin Place, Boston, MA, 02215, USA. .,Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA.
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Adipose Tissue-Derived Signatures for Obesity and Type 2 Diabetes: Adipokines, Batokines and MicroRNAs. J Clin Med 2019; 8:jcm8060854. [PMID: 31208019 PMCID: PMC6617388 DOI: 10.3390/jcm8060854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2019] [Revised: 06/07/2019] [Accepted: 06/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
: Obesity is one of the main risk factors for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). It is closely related to metabolic disturbances in the adipose tissue that primarily functions as a fat reservoir. For this reason, adipose tissue is considered as the primary site for initiation and aggravation of obesity and T2DM. As a key endocrine organ, the adipose tissue communicates with other organs, such as the brain, liver, muscle, and pancreas, for the maintenance of energy homeostasis. Two different types of adipose tissues-the white adipose tissue (WAT) and brown adipose tissue (BAT)-secrete bioactive peptides and proteins, known as "adipokines" and "batokines," respectively. Some of them have beneficial anti-inflammatory effects, while others have harmful inflammatory effects. Recently, "exosomal microRNAs (miRNAs)" were identified as novel adipokines, as adipose tissue-derived exosomal miRNAs can affect other organs. In the present review, we discuss the role of adipose-derived secretory factors-adipokines, batokines, and exosomal miRNA-in obesity and T2DM. It will provide new insights into the pathophysiological mechanisms involved in disturbances of adipose-derived factors and will support the development of adipose-derived factors as potential therapeutic targets for obesity and T2DM.
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Abstract
Brown adipokines are regulatory factors secreted by brown and beige adipocytes that exhibit endocrine, paracrine, and autocrine actions. Peptidic and non-peptidic molecules, including miRNAs and lipids, are constituents of brown adipokines. Brown adipose tissue remodeling to meet thermogenic needs is dependent on the secretory properties of brown/beige adipocytes. The association between brown fat activity and a healthy metabolic profile, in relation to energy balance and glucose and lipid homeostasis, is influenced by the endocrine actions of brown adipokines. A comprehensive knowledge of the brown adipocyte secretome is still lacking. Advancements in the identification and characterization of brown adipokines will facilitate therapeutic interventions for metabolic diseases, as these molecules are obvious candidates to therapeutic agents. Moreover, identification of brown adipokines as circulating biomarkers of brown adipose tissue activity may be particularly useful for noninvasive assessment of brown adipose tissue alterations in human pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesc Villarroya
- Departament de Bioquímica i Biomedicina Molecular, Institut de Biomedicina, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain.
- CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Aleix Gavaldà-Navarro
- Departament de Bioquímica i Biomedicina Molecular, Institut de Biomedicina, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
- CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marion Peyrou
- Departament de Bioquímica i Biomedicina Molecular, Institut de Biomedicina, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
- CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Joan Villarroya
- Departament de Bioquímica i Biomedicina Molecular, Institut de Biomedicina, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
- Hospital de la Santa Creu I Sant Pau, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marta Giralt
- Departament de Bioquímica i Biomedicina Molecular, Institut de Biomedicina, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
- CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición, Barcelona, Spain
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Darcy J, Bartke A. From White to Brown - Adipose Tissue Is Critical to the Extended Lifespan and Healthspan of Growth Hormone Mutant Mice. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2019; 1178:207-225. [PMID: 31493229 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-25650-0_11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Growth hormone (GH) is a metabolic hormone that has major functions in the liver, muscle, and adipose tissue (AT). In the past 20 years, numerous studies have demonstrated that decreased growth hormone (GH) action is clearly linked to alterations in longevity. Therefore, it is not surprising that mechanisms underlying the extended longevity of GH-mutant animals include alterations in AT function. This Review aims to describe the basics of AT biology, GH secretion and action, and the effects of altered GH signaling in mice and humans. Lastly, this Review discusses the intersection of GH and AT, and how the influence of GH on AT may play a critical role in determining lifespan and healthspan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin Darcy
- Section on Integrative Physiology and Metabolism, Joslin Diabetes Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Andrzej Bartke
- Department of Internal Medicine, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, IL, USA
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Carobbio S, Guénantin AC, Samuelson I, Bahri M, Vidal-Puig A. Brown and beige fat: From molecules to physiology and pathophysiology. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Cell Biol Lipids 2018; 1864:37-50. [PMID: 29852279 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbalip.2018.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2017] [Revised: 03/31/2018] [Accepted: 05/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The adipose organ portrays adipocytes of diverse tones: white, brown and beige, each type with distinct functions. Adipocytes orchestrate their adaptation and expansion to provide storage to excess nutrients, the quick mobilisation of fuel to supply peripheral functional demands, insulation, and, in their thermogenic form, heat generation to maintain core body temperature. Thermogenic adipocytes could be targets for anti-obesity and anti-diabetic therapeutic approaches aiming to restore adipose tissue functionality and increase energy dissipation. However, for thermogenic adipose tissue to become therapeutically relevant, a better understanding of its development and origins, its progenitors and their characteristics and the composition of its niche, is essential. Also crucial is the identification of stimuli and molecules promoting its specific differentiation and activation. Here we highlight the structural/cellular differences between human and rodent brown adipose tissue and discuss how obesity and metabolic complication affects brown and beige cells as well as how they could be targeted to improve their activation and improve global metabolic homeostasis. Finally, we describe the limitations of current research models and the advantages of new emerging approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefania Carobbio
- Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Wellcome Trust Genome Campus, Hinxton, UK; Metabolic Research Laboratories, Addenbrooke's Treatment Centre, Institute of Metabolic Science, Addenbrooke's Hospital, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
| | - Anne-Claire Guénantin
- Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Wellcome Trust Genome Campus, Hinxton, UK; Metabolic Research Laboratories, Addenbrooke's Treatment Centre, Institute of Metabolic Science, Addenbrooke's Hospital, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
| | - Isabella Samuelson
- Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Wellcome Trust Genome Campus, Hinxton, UK; Metabolic Research Laboratories, Addenbrooke's Treatment Centre, Institute of Metabolic Science, Addenbrooke's Hospital, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Myriam Bahri
- Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Wellcome Trust Genome Campus, Hinxton, UK; Metabolic Research Laboratories, Addenbrooke's Treatment Centre, Institute of Metabolic Science, Addenbrooke's Hospital, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Antonio Vidal-Puig
- Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Wellcome Trust Genome Campus, Hinxton, UK; Metabolic Research Laboratories, Addenbrooke's Treatment Centre, Institute of Metabolic Science, Addenbrooke's Hospital, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
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Chechi K, van Marken Lichtenbelt W, Richard D. Brown and beige adipose tissues: phenotype and metabolic potential in mice and men. J Appl Physiol (1985) 2018; 124:482-496. [PMID: 28302705 PMCID: PMC5867364 DOI: 10.1152/japplphysiol.00021.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2017] [Revised: 03/09/2017] [Accepted: 03/13/2017] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
With the recent rediscovery of brown fat in adult humans, our outlook on adipose tissue biology has undergone a paradigm shift. While we attempt to identify, recruit, and activate classic brown fat stores in humans, identification of beige fat has also raised the possibility of browning our white fat stores. Whether such transformation of human white fat depots can be achieved to enhance the whole body oxidative potential remains to be seen. Evidence to date, however, largely points toward a major oxidative role only for classic brown fat depots, at least in rodents. White fat stores seem to provide the main fuel for sustaining thermogenesis via lipolysis. Interestingly, molecular markers consistent with both classic brown and beige fat identity can be observed in human supraclavicular depot, thereby complicating the discussion on beige fat in humans. Here, we review the recent advances made in our understanding of brown and beige fat in humans and mice. We further provide an overview of their plausible physiological relevance to whole body energy metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kanta Chechi
- Centre de Recherche de l'Institut Universitaire de Cardiologie et de Pneumologie de Québec, Université Laval, Ville de Québec, Quebec , Canada
| | - Wouter van Marken Lichtenbelt
- Department of Human Biology, NUTRIM School for Nutrition, Toxicology and Metabolism, Maastricht University Medical Center , Maastricht , The Netherlands
| | - Denis Richard
- Centre de Recherche de l'Institut Universitaire de Cardiologie et de Pneumologie de Québec, Université Laval, Ville de Québec, Quebec , Canada
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21
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Microfluidic systems for studying dynamic function of adipocytes and adipose tissue. Anal Bioanal Chem 2017; 410:791-800. [PMID: 29214530 DOI: 10.1007/s00216-017-0741-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2017] [Revised: 10/12/2017] [Accepted: 11/02/2017] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Recent breakthroughs in organ-on-a-chip and related technologies have highlighted the extraordinary potential for microfluidics to not only make lasting impacts in the understanding of biological systems but also to create new and important in vitro culture platforms. Adipose tissue (fat), in particular, is one that should be amenable to microfluidic mimics of its microenvironment. While the tissue was traditionally considered important only for energy storage, it is now understood to be an integral part of the endocrine system that secretes hormones and responds to various stimuli. As such, adipocyte function is central to the understanding of pathological conditions such as obesity, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome. Despite the importance of the tissue, only recently have significant strides been made in studying dynamic function of adipocytes or adipose tissues on microfluidic devices. In this critical review, we highlight new developments in the special class of microfluidic systems aimed at culture and interrogation of adipose tissue, a sub-field of microfluidics that we contend is only in its infancy. We close by reflecting on these studies as we forecast a promising future, where microfluidic technologies should be capable of mimicking the adipose tissue microenvironment and provide novel insights into its physiological roles in the normal and diseased states. Graphical abstract This critical review focuses on recent developments and challenges in applying microfluidic systems to the culture and analysis of adipocytes and adipose tissue.
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Abstract
Brown adipose tissue (BAT) is the main site of adaptive thermogenesis and experimental studies have associated BAT activity with protection against obesity and metabolic diseases, such as type 2 diabetes mellitus and dyslipidaemia. Active BAT is present in adult humans and its activity is impaired in patients with obesity. The ability of BAT to protect against chronic metabolic disease has traditionally been attributed to its capacity to utilize glucose and lipids for thermogenesis. However, BAT might also have a secretory role, which could contribute to the systemic consequences of BAT activity. Several BAT-derived molecules that act in a paracrine or autocrine manner have been identified. Most of these factors promote hypertrophy and hyperplasia of BAT, vascularization, innervation and blood flow, processes that are all associated with BAT recruitment when thermogenic activity is enhanced. Additionally, BAT can release regulatory molecules that act on other tissues and organs. This secretory capacity of BAT is thought to be involved in the beneficial effects of BAT transplantation in rodents. Fibroblast growth factor 21, IL-6 and neuregulin 4 are among the first BAT-derived endocrine factors to be identified. In this Review, we discuss the current understanding of the regulatory molecules (the so-called brown adipokines or batokines) that are released by BAT that influence systemic metabolism and convey the beneficial metabolic effects of BAT activation. The identification of such adipokines might also direct drug discovery approaches for managing obesity and its associated chronic metabolic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesc Villarroya
- Departament de Bioquímica i Biomedicina Molecular, Institut de Biomedicina, Universitat de Barcelona, Avda Diagonal 643, 08028-Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
- CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición, Facultat de Biologia, Universitat de Barcelona, Avda Diagonal 643, 08028-Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Rubén Cereijo
- CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición, Facultat de Biologia, Universitat de Barcelona, Avda Diagonal 643, 08028-Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Joan Villarroya
- CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición, Facultat de Biologia, Universitat de Barcelona, Avda Diagonal 643, 08028-Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Marta Giralt
- Departament de Bioquímica i Biomedicina Molecular, Institut de Biomedicina, Universitat de Barcelona, Avda Diagonal 643, 08028-Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
- CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición, Facultat de Biologia, Universitat de Barcelona, Avda Diagonal 643, 08028-Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
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Fukano K, Okamatsu-Ogura Y, Tsubota A, Nio-Kobayashi J, Kimura K. Cold Exposure Induces Proliferation of Mature Brown Adipocyte in a ß3-Adrenergic Receptor-Mediated Pathway. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0166579. [PMID: 27846311 PMCID: PMC5112994 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0166579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2016] [Accepted: 10/31/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Hyperplasia of brown adipose tissue (BAT) is a fundamental mechanism for adaptation to survive in the cold environment in rodents. To determine which cell types comprising BAT contribute to tissue hyperplasia, immunohistochemical analysis using a proliferative marker Ki67 was performed on the BAT from 6-week-old C57BL/6J mice housed at 23°C (control) or 10°C (cold) for 5 days. Interestingly, in the control group, the cell proliferative marker Ki67 was detected in the nuclei of uncoupling protein 1-positive mature brown adipocytes (7.2% ± 0.4% of brown adipocyte), as well as in the non-adipocyte stromal-vascular (SV) cells (19.6% ± 2.3% of SV cells), which include preadiopocytes. The percentage of Ki67-positive brown adipocytes increased to 25.6% ± 1.8% at Day 1 after cold exposure and was significantly higher than the non-cold acclimated control until Day 5 (21.8% ± 1.7%). On the other hand, the percentage of Ki67-positive SV cells gradually increased by a cold exposure and peaked to 42.1% ± 8.3% at Day 5. Injection of a ß3-adrenergic receptor (ß3-AR) agonist for continuous 5 days increased the number of Ki67-positive brown adipocytes even at Day 1 but not that of SV cells. In addition, the ß3-AR antagonist, but not ß1-AR antagonist, attenuated the cold exposure-induced increase in the number of Ki67-positive brown adipocytes. These results suggest that mature brown adipocytes proliferate immediately after cold exposure in a ß3-AR-mediated pathway. Thus, proliferation of mature brown adipocytes as well as preadipocytes in SV cells may contribute to cold exposure-induced BAT hyperplasia.
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MESH Headings
- Adaptation, Physiological/genetics
- Adipocytes, Brown/metabolism
- Adipocytes, Brown/physiology
- Adrenergic beta-3 Receptor Agonists/administration & dosage
- Animals
- Cell Proliferation/genetics
- Cold Temperature
- Gene Expression Regulation
- Hyperplasia/genetics
- Ki-67 Antigen/biosynthesis
- Ki-67 Antigen/genetics
- Mice
- Receptors, Adrenergic, beta-1/biosynthesis
- Receptors, Adrenergic, beta-1/genetics
- Receptors, Adrenergic, beta-3/biosynthesis
- Receptors, Adrenergic, beta-3/genetics
- Signal Transduction
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Affiliation(s)
- Keigo Fukano
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060–0818, Japan
| | - Yuko Okamatsu-Ogura
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060–0818, Japan
- * E-mail:
| | - Ayumi Tsubota
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060–0818, Japan
| | - Junko Nio-Kobayashi
- Laboratory of Histology and Cytology, Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 065–0013, Japan
| | - Kazuhiro Kimura
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060–0818, Japan
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Thoonen R, Hindle AG, Scherrer-Crosbie M. Brown adipose tissue: The heat is on the heart. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2016; 310:H1592-605. [PMID: 27084389 DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00698.2015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2015] [Accepted: 04/13/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The study of brown adipose tissue (BAT) has gained significant scientific interest since the discovery of functional BAT in adult humans. The thermogenic properties of BAT are well recognized; however, data generated in the last decade in both rodents and humans reveal therapeutic potential for BAT against metabolic disorders and obesity. Here we review the current literature in light of a potential role for BAT in beneficially mediating cardiovascular health. We focus mainly on BAT's actions in obesity, vascular tone, and glucose and lipid metabolism. Furthermore, we discuss the recently discovered endocrine factors that have a potential beneficial role in cardiovascular health. These BAT-secreted factors may have a favorable effect against cardiovascular risk either through their metabolic role or by directly affecting the heart.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robrecht Thoonen
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Allyson G Hindle
- Department of Anesthesia and Critical Pain Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts; and
| | - Marielle Scherrer-Crosbie
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts; Cardiac Ultrasound Laboratory, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
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25
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Wang GX, Zhao XY, Lin JD. The brown fat secretome: metabolic functions beyond thermogenesis. Trends Endocrinol Metab 2015; 26:231-7. [PMID: 25843910 PMCID: PMC4417028 DOI: 10.1016/j.tem.2015.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 145] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2015] [Revised: 03/08/2015] [Accepted: 03/11/2015] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Brown fat is highly active in fuel oxidation and dissipates chemical energy through uncoupling protein (UCP)1-mediated heat production. Activation of brown fat leads to increased energy expenditure, reduced adiposity, and lower plasma glucose and lipid levels, thus contributing to better homeostasis. Uncoupled respiration and thermogenesis have been considered to be responsible for the metabolic benefits of brown adipose tissue. Recent studies have demonstrated that brown adipocytes also secrete factors that act locally and systemically to influence fuel and energy metabolism. This review discusses the evidence supporting a thermogenesis-independent role of brown fat, particularly through its release of secreted factors, and their implications in physiology and therapeutic development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guo-Xiao Wang
- Life Sciences Institute and Department of Cell & Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, USA
| | - Xu-Yun Zhao
- Life Sciences Institute and Department of Cell & Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, USA
| | - Jiandie D Lin
- Life Sciences Institute and Department of Cell & Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, USA.
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Rosell M, Kaforou M, Frontini A, Okolo A, Chan YW, Nikolopoulou E, Millership S, Fenech ME, MacIntyre D, Turner JO, Moore JD, Blackburn E, Gullick WJ, Cinti S, Montana G, Parker MG, Christian M. Brown and white adipose tissues: intrinsic differences in gene expression and response to cold exposure in mice. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 2014; 306:E945-64. [PMID: 24549398 PMCID: PMC3989735 DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.00473.2013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 265] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Brown adipocytes dissipate energy, whereas white adipocytes are an energy storage site. We explored the plasticity of different white adipose tissue depots in acquiring a brown phenotype by cold exposure. By comparing cold-induced genes in white fat to those enriched in brown compared with white fat, at thermoneutrality we defined a "brite" transcription signature. We identified the genes, pathways, and promoter regulatory motifs associated with "browning," as these represent novel targets for understanding this process. For example, neuregulin 4 was more highly expressed in brown adipose tissue and upregulated in white fat upon cold exposure, and cell studies showed that it is a neurite outgrowth-promoting adipokine, indicative of a role in increasing adipose tissue innervation in response to cold. A cell culture system that allows us to reproduce the differential properties of the discrete adipose depots was developed to study depot-specific differences at an in vitro level. The key transcriptional events underpinning white adipose tissue to brown transition are important, as they represent an attractive proposition to overcome the detrimental effects associated with metabolic disorders, including obesity and type 2 diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meritxell Rosell
- Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
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Gómez-Hernández A, Perdomo L, Escribano Ó, Benito M. [Role of brown and perivascular adipose tissue in vascular complications due to obesity]. CLINICA E INVESTIGACION EN ARTERIOSCLEROSIS : PUBLICACION OFICIAL DE LA SOCIEDAD ESPANOLA DE ARTERIOSCLEROSIS 2013; 25:36-44. [PMID: 23522280 DOI: 10.1016/j.arteri.2012.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2012] [Accepted: 11/28/2012] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
The contribution of brown and perivascular adipose tissues to the pathophysiology of metabolic and vascular complications associated with obesity are analysed in this review. To combat obesity and prevent its highly prevalent metabolic and vascular complications, a new insight on our knowledge of the role of the thermogenic function of brown adipose tissue and its promising therapeutic potential in humans is needed in addition to conventional treatments. Owing to the impact of brown adipose tissue on energy expenditure related to lipid and glucose metabolism, as well as its potential resistance against inflammation along with perivascular adipose tissue, new perspectives in the treatment of obesity treatment could be focused on the design of new drugs, or different regimens or therapies, that increase the amount and activity of brown adipose tissue. These new treatments not only may contribute to combat obesity, but also prevent complications such as type 2 diabetes and other associated metabolic and vascular changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Almudena Gómez-Hernández
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, España.
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Vitali A, Murano I, Zingaretti MC, Frontini A, Ricquier D, Cinti S. The adipose organ of obesity-prone C57BL/6J mice is composed of mixed white and brown adipocytes. J Lipid Res 2012; 53:619-29. [PMID: 22271685 DOI: 10.1194/jlr.m018846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 346] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
White and brown adipocytes are believed to occupy different sites in the body. We studied the anatomical features and quantitative histology of the fat depots in obesity and type 2 diabetes-prone C57BL/6J mice acclimated to warm or cold temperatures. Most of the fat tissue was contained in depots with discrete anatomical features, and most depots contained both white and brown adipocytes. Quantitative analysis showed that cold acclimation induced an increase in brown adipocytes and an almost equal reduction in white adipocytes; however, there were no significant differences in total adipocyte count or any signs of apoptosis or mitosis, in line with the hypothesis of the direct transformation of white into brown adipocytes. The brown adipocyte increase was accompanied by enhanced density of noradrenergic parenchymal nerve fibers, with a significant correlation between the density of these fibers and the number of brown adipocytes. Comparison with data from obesity-resistant Sv129 mice disclosed a significantly different brown adipocyte content in C57BL/6J mice, suggesting that this feature could underpin the propensity of the latter strain to develop obesity. However, the greater C57BL/6J browning capacity can hopefully be harnessed to curb obesity and type 2 diabetes in patients with constitutively low amounts of brown adipose tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Vitali
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Ancona, (Politecnica delle Marche), 60020 Ancona, Italy
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Townsend K, Tseng YH. Brown adipose tissue: Recent insights into development, metabolic function and therapeutic potential. Adipocyte 2012; 1:13-24. [PMID: 23700507 PMCID: PMC3661118 DOI: 10.4161/adip.18951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 118] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Obesity is currently a global pandemic, and is associated with increased mortality and co-morbidities including many metabolic diseases. Obesity is characterized by an increase in adipose mass due to increased energy intake, decreased energy expenditure, or both. While white adipose tissue is specialized for energy storage, brown adipose tissue has a high concentration of mitochondria and uniquely expresses uncoupling protein 1, enabling it to be specialized for energy expenditure and thermogenesis. Although brown fat was once considered only necessary in babies, recent morphological and imaging studies have provided evidence that, contrary to prior belief, this tissue is present and active in adult humans. In recent years, the topic of brown adipose tissue has been reinvigorated with many new studies regarding brown adipose tissue differentiation, function and therapeutic promise. This review summarizes the recent advances, discusses the emerging questions and offers perspective on the potential therapeutic applications targeting this tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristy Townsend
- Joslin Diabetes Center and Harvard Medical School; Boston, MA USA
| | - Yu-Hua Tseng
- Joslin Diabetes Center and Harvard Medical School; Boston, MA USA
- Harvard Stem Cell Institute; Harvard University; Cambridge, MA USA
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Reverter A, Hudson NJ, Nagaraj SH, Pérez-Enciso M, Dalrymple BP. Regulatory impact factors: unraveling the transcriptional regulation of complex traits from expression data. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2010; 26:896-904. [PMID: 20144946 DOI: 10.1093/bioinformatics/btq051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
MOTIVATION Although transcription factors (TF) play a central regulatory role, their detection from expression data is limited due to their low, and often sparse, expression. In order to fill this gap, we propose a regulatory impact factor (RIF) metric to identify critical TF from gene expression data. RESULTS To substantiate the generality of RIF, we explore a set of experiments spanning a wide range of scenarios including breast cancer survival, fat, gonads and sex differentiation. We show that the strength of RIF lies in its ability to simultaneously integrate three sources of information into a single measure: (i) the change in correlation existing between the TF and the differentially expressed (DE) genes; (ii) the amount of differential expression of DE genes; and (iii) the abundance of DE genes. As a result, RIF analysis assigns an extreme score to those TF that are consistently most differentially co-expressed with the highly abundant and highly DE genes (RIF1), and to those TF with the most altered ability to predict the abundance of DE genes (RIF2). We show that RIF analysis alone recovers well-known experimentally validated TF for the processes studied. The TF identified confirm the importance of PPAR signaling in adipose development and the importance of transduction of estrogen signals in breast cancer survival and sexual differentiation. We argue that RIF has universal applicability, and advocate its use as a promising hypotheses generating tool for the systematic identification of novel TF not yet documented as critical.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Reverter
- Bioinformatics Group, CSIRO Livestock Industries, Queensland Bioscience Precinct, 306 Carmody Road, St. Lucia, Brisbane, Queensland 4067, Australia.
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Kanzleiter T, Schneider T, Walter I, Bolze F, Eickhorst C, Heldmaier G, Klaus S, Klingenspor M. Evidence for Nr4a1 as a cold-induced effector of brown fat thermogenesis. Physiol Genomics 2005; 24:37-44. [PMID: 16219868 DOI: 10.1152/physiolgenomics.00204.2005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Acute cold exposure leads to norepinephrine release in brown adipose tissue (BAT) and activates uncoupling protein (UCP)1-mediated nonshivering thermogenesis. Chronic sympathetic stimulation is known to initiate mitochondrial biogenesis, UCP1 expression, hyperplasia of BAT, and recruitment of brown adipocytes in white adipose tissue (WAT) depots. Despite distinct functions of BAT and WAT in energy balance, only a few genes are exclusively expressed in either tissue. We identified NUR77 (Nr4a1), an orphan receptor, to be induced transiently in brown adipocytes in response to beta-adrenergic stimulation and in BAT of cold-exposed mice. Subsequent reporter gene assays demonstrated an inhibitory action of NUR77 on basal and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)gamma/retinoid X receptor (RXR)alpha-mediated transactivation of the Ucp1 enhancer in heterologous cotransfection experiments. Despite this function of NUR77 in the control of Ucp1 gene expression, nonshivering thermogenesis was not affected in Nur77 knockout mice. However, we observed a superinduction of Nor1 in BAT of cold-exposed knockout mice. We conclude that NUR77 is a cold-induced negative regulator of Ucp1, but phenotypic consequences in knockout mice are compensated by functional redundancy of Nor1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timo Kanzleiter
- Department of Animal Physiology, Biology Faculty, Philipps University-Marburg, Marburg, Germany
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Peeraully MR, Jenkins JR, Trayhurn P. NGF gene expression and secretion in white adipose tissue: regulation in 3T3-L1 adipocytes by hormones and inflammatory cytokines. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 2004; 287:E331-9. [PMID: 15100092 DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.00076.2004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The sympathetic nervous system plays a central role in lipolysis and the production of leptin in white adipose tissue (WAT). In this study, we have examined whether nerve growth factor (NGF), a target-derived neurotropin that is a key signal in the development and survival of sympathetic neurons, is expressed and secreted by white adipocytes. NGF mRNA was detected by RT-PCR in the major WAT depots of mice (epididymal, perirenal, omental, mesenteric, subcutaneous) and in human fat (subcutaneous, omental). In mouse WAT, NGF expression was observed in mature adipocytes and in stromal vascular cells. NGF expression was also evident in 3T3-L1 cells before and after differentiation into adipocytes. NGF protein, measured by ELISA, was secreted from 3T3-L1 cells, release being higher before differentiation. Addition of the sympathetic agonists norepinephrine, isoprenaline, or BRL-37344 (beta(3)-agonist) led to falls in NGF gene expression and secretion by 3T3-L1 adipocytes, as did IL-6 and the PPARgamma agonist rosiglitazone. A substantial decrease in NGF expression and secretion occurred with dexamethasone. In contrast, LPS increased NGF mRNA levels and NGF secretion. A major increase in NGF mRNA level (9-fold) and NGF secretion (<or=40-fold) in 3T3-L1 adipocytes occurred with TNF-alpha. RT-PCR showed that the genes encoding the p75 and trkA NGF receptors were expressed in mouse WAT. These results demonstrate that white adipocytes secrete NGF (an adipokine), NGF synthesis being influenced by several factors with TNF-alpha having a major stimulatory effect. We suggest that NGF is a target-derived neurotropin and an inflammatory response protein in white adipocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad R Peeraully
- Neuroendocrine and Obesity Biology Unit, Liverpool Centre for Nutritional Genomics, School of Clinical Sciences, University of Liverpool, UK
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Abstract
The function of brown adipose tissue is to transfer energy from food into heat; physiologically, both the heat produced and the resulting decrease in metabolic efficiency can be of significance. Both the acute activity of the tissue, i.e., the heat production, and the recruitment process in the tissue (that results in a higher thermogenic capacity) are under the control of norepinephrine released from sympathetic nerves. In thermoregulatory thermogenesis, brown adipose tissue is essential for classical nonshivering thermogenesis (this phenomenon does not exist in the absence of functional brown adipose tissue), as well as for the cold acclimation-recruited norepinephrine-induced thermogenesis. Heat production from brown adipose tissue is activated whenever the organism is in need of extra heat, e.g., postnatally, during entry into a febrile state, and during arousal from hibernation, and the rate of thermogenesis is centrally controlled via a pathway initiated in the hypothalamus. Feeding as such also results in activation of brown adipose tissue; a series of diets, apparently all characterized by being low in protein, result in a leptin-dependent recruitment of the tissue; this metaboloregulatory thermogenesis is also under hypothalamic control. When the tissue is active, high amounts of lipids and glucose are combusted in the tissue. The development of brown adipose tissue with its characteristic protein, uncoupling protein-1 (UCP1), was probably determinative for the evolutionary success of mammals, as its thermogenesis enhances neonatal survival and allows for active life even in cold surroundings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Cannon
- The Wenner-Gren Institute, The Arrhenius Laboratories F3, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
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Abstract
Brown adipose tissue (BAT) produces heat by oxidation of fatty acids. This takes place when the tissue is stimulated by norepinephrine; the molecular background for the ability of BAT to produce heat is the tissue-specific mitochondrial protein UCP1. In the classic view of BAT with respect to fever, BAT is an effector organ, producing heat especially during the onset phase of the fever. There is good evidence that BAT thermogenesis is stimulated via a lipopolysaccharide (LPS), interleukin (IL)-1 beta, IL-6, prostaglandin E cascade. Under physiologic conditions of constantly stimulated activity, BAT is expected to be recruited, but in fevers this is only evident in thyroxine fever. However, BAT may be more than merely an effector. There are indications of a correlation between the amount of BAT and the intensity of fevers, and brown adipocytes can indeed produce IL-1 alpha and IL-6. Furthermore, brown adipocytes are directly sensitive to LPS; this LPS sensitivity is augmented in brown adipocytes from IL-1 beta-deficient mice. Thus, BAT may also have a controlling role in thermoregulation. The existence of transgenic mice with ablations of proteins central in fever and in BAT thermogenesis opens up possibilities for identification and elucidation of this putative new role for brown adipose tissue as an endocrine organ involved in the control of fever.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Cannon
- The Wenner-Gren Institute, The Arrhenius Laboratories F3, Stockholm University, S-106 91 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Josef Houstek
- Institute of Physiology, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Videnská 1083, CZ-142 20 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Jan Nedergaard
- The Wenner-Gren Institute, The Arrhenius Laboratories F3, Stockholm University, S-106 91 Stockholm, Sweden
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35
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Nisoli E, Tonello C, Carruba MO. Nerve growth factor, beta3-adrenoceptor and uncoupling protein 1 expression in rat brown fat during postnatal development. Neurosci Lett 1998; 246:5-8. [PMID: 9622194 DOI: 10.1016/s0304-3940(98)00220-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
An analysis was made of the expression of nerve growth factor (NGF) mRNA and protein in the brown fat of rats at different ages, and the results compared with the expression of beta3-adrenoceptor and uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1). NGF, beta3-adrenoceptor, and UCP1 messenger RNA and protein levels were measured by means of reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and Western blotting in the brown fat of rats at different ages (from 20-day-old fetuses (E20) to 16-month-old rats). During the perinatal period, NGF production increased and then declined to adult levels (which are comparable with fetal levels) by eight months, and remained stable thereafter. Relatively low levels of NGF were present in the brown fat of aged rats. Taken together, these results suggest that NGF may be responsible for regulating sympathetic innervation during the perinatal and adult periods.
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MESH Headings
- Adipose Tissue, Brown/embryology
- Adipose Tissue, Brown/metabolism
- Aging
- Animals
- Blotting, Western
- Carrier Proteins/biosynthesis
- Ion Channels
- Male
- Membrane Proteins/biosynthesis
- Mitochondrial Proteins
- Nerve Growth Factors/biosynthesis
- Polymerase Chain Reaction
- RNA, Messenger/analysis
- Rats
- Rats, Sprague-Dawley
- Receptors, Adrenergic, beta/biosynthesis
- Receptors, Adrenergic, beta-3
- Time Factors
- Transcription, Genetic
- Uncoupling Protein 1
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Affiliation(s)
- E Nisoli
- Centre for Study and Research on Obesity, Department of Pharmacology, Chemotherapy and Medical Toxicology, LITA Vialba, Ospedale L. Sacco, School of Medicine, University of Milan, Milano, Italy.
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