The Perfect Storm: Obesity, Adipocyte Dysfunction, and Metabolic Consequences

BACKGROUND: As the prevalence of adiposity soars in both developed and developing nations, appreciation of the close links between obesity and disease increases. The strong relationships between excess adipose tissue and poor health outcomes, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer, mandate elucidation of the complex cellular, hormonal, and molecular pathophysiology whereby adiposity initiates and maintains adverse health effects. CONTENT: In this report we review adipocyte metabolism and function in the context of energy imbalance and postprandial nutrient excess, including adipocyte hypertrophy and hyperplasia, adipocyte dysfunction, and other systemic consequences. We also discuss…

• NI
  National Institutes of Health

  Awards: K08-HL-075628, K23 HL085308-01A1
• NH
  National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute