lncRNA MSTRG4710 Promotes the Proliferation and Differentiation of Preadipocytes through miR-29b-3p/IGF1 Axis

The Long Non-Coding RNA Obesity-Related (Obr) Contributes To Lipid Metabolism Through Epigenetic Regulation

Obesity is a multifactorial disease that is part of today's epidemic and also increases the risk of other metabolic diseases. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) provide one tier of regulatory mechanisms to maintain metabolic homeostasis. Although lncRNAs are a significant constituent of the mammalian genome, studies aimed at their metabolic significance, including obesity, are only beginning to be addressed. Here, a developmentally regulated lncRNA, termed as obesity related (Obr), whose expression in metabolically relevant tissues such as skeletal muscle, liver, and pancreas is altered in diet-induced obesity, is identified. The Clone 9 cell line and high-fat diet-induced obese Wistar rats are used as a model system to verify the function of Obr. By using stable expression and antisense oligonucleotide-mediated downregulation of the expression of Obr followed by different molecular biology experiments, its role in lipid metabolism is verified. It is shown that Obr associates with the cAMP response element-binding protein (Creb) and activates different transcription factors involved in lipid metabolism. Its association with the Creb histone acetyltransferase complex, which includes the cAMP response element-binding protein (CBP) and p300, positively regulates the transcription of genes involved in lipid metabolism. In addition, Obr is regulated by Pparγ in response to lipid accumulation.

Pulling the trigger: Noncoding RNAs in white adipose tissue browning

White adipose tissue (WAT) serves as the primary site for energy storage and endocrine regulation in mammals, while brown adipose tissue (BAT) is specialized for thermogenesis and energy expenditure. The conversion of white adipocytes to brown-like fat cells, known as browning, has emerged as a promising therapeutic strategy for reversing obesity and its associated co-morbidities. Noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) are a class of transcripts that do not encode proteins but exert regulatory functions on gene expression at various levels. Recent studies have shed light on the involvement of ncRNAs in adipose tissue development, differentiation, and function. In this review, we aim to summarize the current understanding of ncRNAs in adipose biology, with a focus on their role and intricate mechanisms in WAT browning. Also, we discuss the potential applications and challenges of ncRNA-based therapies for overweight and its metabolic disorders, so as to combat the obesity epidemic in the future.