Adipose tissue heterogeneity: Implication of depot differences in adipose tissue for obesity complications

Abstract

Obesity, defined as excess fat mass, increases risks for multiple metabolic diseases, such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and several types of cancer. Over and above fat mass per se, the pattern of fat distribution, android or truncal as compared to gynoid or peripheral, has a profound influence on systemic metabolism and hence risk for metabolic diseases. Increases in upper body adipose tissue (visceral and abdominal subcutaneous) confer an independent risk, while the quantity of gluteofemoral adipose tissue is protective. Variations in the capacity of different depots to store and release fatty acids and to produce adipokines are important determinants of fat distribution and its metabolic consequences. Depot differences in cellular composition and physiology, including innervation and blood flow, likely influence their phenotypic properties. A number of lines of evidence also support the idea that adipocytes from different anatomical depots are intrinsically different as a result of genetic or developmental events. In this chapter, we will review the phenotypic characteristics of different adipose depots and mechanisms that link their depot-specific biology to metabolic complications in men and women.

Effects of Eicosapentaenoic Acid Treatment on Epicardial and Abdominal Visceral Adipose Tissue Volumes in Patients with Coronary Artery Disease

“…Dysfunctional adipose tissue in obese subjects produces more pro-inflammatory factors, such as FFAs, and fewer anti-inflammatory factors, such as adiponectin. These events exacerbate the risk for developing metabolic diseases 38) . An EPA-mediated decrease in adipose tissue volume might contribute to reduced serum TG levels.…”

Effects of a multi-component camp-based intervention on inflammatory markers and adipokines in children: A randomized controlled trial

“…Generally, central obesity (accumulation of visceral fat and abdominal subcutaneous fat) is correlated with increased risk of CVD, and lower-body fat accumulation is inversely associated with risk of CVD (Lee et al, 2013). Meanwhile, evidence has shown a depot difference in the productions of inflammatory cytokines and adipokines.…”

Indices of Central and Peripheral Obesity; Anthropometric Measurements and Laboratory Parameters of Metabolic Syndrome and Thyroid Function

“…Central obesity can also be shown in some other parts of the body's upper trunk like the upper chest nape area of the neck, and even the shoulders. Central obese individuals have been known to be more vulnerable to diseases associated with obesity, whereas there is proof that peripheral fat distribution may be protective (3)(4)(5). Obesity is well-defined by using body mass index (BMI), a quantification obtained by dividing a person's weight by the square of the person's height.…”