Adipose tissue as source and target for novel therapies.
The physiology of adipose tissue has a key role in the pathogenesis of the metabolic syndrome and related cardiovascular disorders. Three main functions of adipocytes have been proposed to explain this role: the secretion of adipocyte-derived hormones (so-called adipokines), energy dissipation/thermogenesis, and energy storage. There is mounting evidence that this repertoire of actions and reactions contributes to whole-body glucose and energy homeostasis, the control of blood pressure, immune-system function, haemostasis and atherosclerosis. In this article we highlight the most recent examples of adipocyte-based therapies and discuss future pharmacological options for exploiting this triad of adipocyte functions.
Klein
Johannes
J
Department of Internal Medicine I, University of Lübeck, Ratzeburger Allee 160, 23538 Lübeck, Germany. j.klein@uni-luebeck.de
Perwitz
Nina
N
Kraus
Daniel
D
Fasshauer
Mathias
M
D017667:Adipocytes / Q000378:metabolism; D052242:Adiponectin / Q000378:metabolism; D000273:Adipose Tissue / Q000378:metabolism*; D016207:Cytokines / Q000378:metabolism; D006801:Humans; D020738:Leptin / Q000378:metabolism; D052243:Resistin / Q000378:metabolism
D052242:Adiponectin; D016207:Cytokines; D020738:Leptin; D052243:Resistin