The molecular basis of genetic lipodystrophies

Hyperinsulinemia is often associated with a cluster of metabolic abnormalities, which usually presents before the onset of frank diabetes. Lipodystrophy syndromes are frequently associated with hyperinsulinemia and may act as models for insulin resistance. Lipodystrophy is characterized in broad terms by loss of subcutaneous adipose tissue. Despite heterogeneous causes, which include both genetic and acquired forms, lipodystrophy syndromes have similar metabolic attributes, including insulin resistance, hyperlipidemia and diabetes.

Recently, the molecular basis of two genetic forms of lipodystrophy, namely Dunnigan-type familial partial lipodystrophy (FPLD; MIM 151660) and Berardinelli-Seip complete lipodystrophy (BSCL; MIM 269700) have been reported. There is evidence for genetic heterogeneity for both types of lipodystrophy. In addition, murine models of lipodystrophy have provided key insights into alterations of metabolic pathways in lipodystrophy.

Delineation of the human molecular genetic basis of two distinct forms of inherited lipodystrophy may have relevance for the common insulin resistance syndrome and for acquired lipodystrophy syndromes.