Serum-free differentiation of 3T3-L1 preadipocytes is characterized by only transient expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma

Induction of prolactin expression and release in human preadipocytes by cAMP activating ligands

In addition to the pituitary, prolactin (PRL) in humans is produced at non-pituitary sites where it acts as a cytokine. We previously reported that PRL is expressed and released from breast adipose explants, raising the question as to the dynamics of its production and its regulation. Preadipocytes were isolated from breast adipose tissue obtained during breast reduction. PRL expression was transiently increased during early preadipocyte differentiation. Both isoproterenol, a beta-adrenergic receptor agonist, and PACAP, pituitary adenylate cyclase activating peptide, increased PRL expression, and release from preadipocytes. This stimulation was suppressed by several protein kinase inhibitors, suggesting involvement of multiple signaling pathways. Transfection of preadipocytes with a superdistal PRL promoter/luciferase reporter revealed two stimulatory domains and an inhibitory domain. These data establish the transcriptional regulation of adipocyte PRL by the superdistal PRL promoter, its transient expression during adipogenesis, and the stimulatory effect of catecholamines and PACAP.

Intercellular signaling between adipose tissue and muscle tissue

Adipose and muscle tissues undergo regulated growth and differentiation processes that are modulated by a wide range of factors. The interactions between myogenic cells and adipocytes play a significant role in growth and development, including the rate and extent of myogenesis, muscle growth, adipogenesis, lipogenesis/lipolysis, and in the utilization of energy substrates. Important hormones and growth factors involved in the regulation of these processes include glucocorticoids, insulin-like growth factors, various cytokines, insulin, and leptin. Interactions among these axes have important implications in their influence on relative fat and lean deposition and the efficiency of energy utilization in growth and development. As research progresses to better clarify the interactions among adipose tissue depots and muscle of different fiber types, pathways will become better understood, ultimately leading to the optimized management of fat and lean growth in domestic livestock species. This review will focus on elements of intercellular signaling, using data from cell culture studies to illustrate specific examples of signaling pathways between cells.