The Platform for Adipose Tissue Expansion during Positive Energy Balance

Extract

Studies in adipose tissue gene expression and histology have focused largely on cross-sectional studies examining associations with measured metabolic parameters. These studies have contributed to our understanding of adipose tissue as a more active endocrine organ than previously envisioned. Yet, adipose tissue has the capacity to expand and contract more rapidly than other organs. Understanding the changes that occur with adipose tissue expansion/reduction may be crucial to preventing weight gain and aiding weight loss and maintenance. The study by Alligier et al. (1) in this issue of the JCEM examined early (at 14 d) and later (at 56 d) changes in whole adipose tissue gene expression and histology in individuals undergoing overfeeding. Not surprisingly, genes associated with lipid and fatty acid biosynthesis were increased early in overfeeding. The more compelling findings were those after 8 wk of overfeeding that demonstrated up-regulation of pathways involved in angiogenesis, extracellular matrix deposition, and the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) along with down-regulation of the cellular nutrient-sensing β-catenin-dependent Wnt pathway.