[HTML][HTML] β-Adrenoceptor signaling networks in adipocytes for recruiting stored fat and energy expenditure

S Collins - Frontiers in endocrinology, 2012 - frontiersin.org
Frontiers in endocrinology, 2012frontiersin.org
The adipocyte is like a bank: a place to store excess (caloric) cash in times of plenty, and
from which one can withdraw savings during “lean times.” The β-adrenoceptors (βAR) are
the gateways to this mobilization of fat to be consumed in other tissues. This review
discusses the βAR signaling pathway (s) in white and brown adipocytes. Studies in rodent
models show that brown adipocytes nestled with white fat depots correlate with and are
considered a key enabling factor in resistance to diet-induced obesity. Since it is now …
The adipocyte is like a bank: a place to store excess (caloric) cash in times of plenty, and from which one can withdraw savings during “lean times.” The β-adrenoceptors (βAR) are the gateways to this mobilization of fat to be consumed in other tissues. This review discusses the βAR signaling pathway(s) in white and brown adipocytes. Studies in rodent models show that brown adipocytes nestled with white fat depots correlate with and are considered a key enabling factor in resistance to diet-induced obesity. Since it is now recognized that adult humans have brown adipocytes, knowing the steps in these signaling pathways may provide the opportunity to manipulate adipocytes to be net consumers of energy.
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