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Updated: Jun 25, 2026

Mechanism of Regulation of Adipocyte Numbers in Adult Organisms Through Differentiation and Apoptosis Homeostasis
Published on: June 3, 2016
The tumor suppressors pRB and p53 as regulators of adipocyte differentiation and function
Philip Hallenborg1, Søren Feddersen, Lise Madsen
1University of Southern Denmark, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Campusvej 55, 5230 Odense M, Denmark.
Background:
The retinoblastoma protein (pRB) and p53 are crucial members of regulatory networks controlling the cell cycle and apoptosis, and a hallmark of virtually all cancers is dysregulation of expression or function of pRB or p53. Although they are best known for their role in cancer development, it is now evident that both are implicated in metabolism and cellular development.
Objective/Methods:
To review the role of pRB and p53 in adipocyte differentiation and function emphasizing that pRB and p53, via their effects on adipocyte development and function, play a role in the regulation of energy metabolism and homeostasis.
Results/Conclusions:
pRB is required for adipose conversion and also involved in determining its mitochondrial capacity. p53 inhibits adipogenesis and results suggest that it is involved in maintaining function of adipose tissue.
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