Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 10, 2026
04:53
Isolation, In Vitro Expansion, and Characterization of Mesenchymal Stem Cells from Mouse Epididymal Adipose Tissue
Published on: January 12, 2024
Lipodystrophy: pathophysiology and advances in treatment.
Christina G Fiorenza1, Sharon H Chou, Christos S Mantzoros
1Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes & Metabolism, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA 02215, USA.
Nature Reviews. Endocrinology
|November 17, 2010
Summary
Lipodystrophy involves loss or abnormal fat distribution, causing metabolic issues. Research explores hormonal imbalances and new treatments like PPARγ agonists for this endocrine disorder.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Metabolic Disorders
- Genetics
Background:
- Lipodystrophy is defined by adipose tissue loss, often with ectopic fat accumulation.
- Patients experience significant metabolic complications due to adipose tissue's endocrine function.
- Adipose tissue amount and distribution are critical for metabolic health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the understanding of lipodystrophy, focusing on metabolic complications.
- To explore the role of adipokines and novel therapeutic strategies.
- To highlight recent research and clinical trial insights.
Main Methods:
- Review of genetic and molecular research on lipodystrophy.
- Analysis of hormonal changes, including leptin and adiponectin.
- Evaluation of current and emerging therapeutic approaches.
Main Results:
- Reduced circulating leptin and adiponectin levels are observed in lipodystrophy patients.
- Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) agonists show therapeutic potential.
- Growth hormone and related factors are under investigation.
Conclusions:
- Adipose tissue dysfunction in lipodystrophy leads to severe metabolic disturbances.
- Targeting adipokine deficiencies and exploring novel agents are promising therapeutic avenues.
- Ongoing research may transform lipodystrophy management.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
01:22Lysosomal Hydrolases
Lysosomes are the site for the degradation of macromolecules and biological polymers released during membrane trafficking events such as secretory, endocytic, autophagic, and phagocytic pathways. The membrane-enclosed area of the lysosome, called the lumen, contains hydrolytic enzymes active in an acidic environment. These acid hydrolases are functional at a pH between 4.5 and 5 and are involved in cellular processes such as cell signaling, energy metabolism, restoration of the plasma membrane,...
01:15Parkinson's Disease: Overview
Neurodegenerative disorders are progressive diseases that cause irreversible damage and loss to neurons in specific brain areas. Examples of these disorders include Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, Multiple Sclerosis (MS), and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). These disorders share characteristics such as proteinopathies, selective neuronal vulnerability, and a complex interplay between genetic and environmental factors. The primary therapeutic goal for these conditions is to...
01:24Overview of Lipid Metabolism
Lipid metabolism is a crucial process in the human body that involves the synthesis and degradation of lipids. This process is essential for energy production, cell membrane formation, and hormone production, among other functions.
Lipolysis: The Breakdown of Lipids:
Lipolysis is the process of breaking down lipids, particularly triglycerides, into glycerol and fatty acids. This process typically occurs in the adipose tissue and is triggered by various hormones, including glucagon and...
Lipolysis: The Breakdown of Lipids:
Lipolysis is the process of breaking down lipids, particularly triglycerides, into glycerol and fatty acids. This process typically occurs in the adipose tissue and is triggered by various hormones, including glucagon and...
01:29Pharmacogenomics: Identification of New Drug Targets
Advances in genomics have profoundly influenced drug discovery by increasing both the speed and accuracy of pharmaceutical development. Pharmacogenomics, which examines how genetic variation influences drug response, facilitates the identification of novel therapeutic targets and enables patient stratification for personalized treatment. These strategies contribute to improved drug efficacy, minimized adverse effects, and more efficient clinical trial design.Mapping genetic differences...
01:19Cushing Syndrome II: Pathophysiology
Cortisol production is normally governed by the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis, which maintains hormonal balance through tightly regulated feedback mechanisms. Disruption of this regulatory system is central to the development of Cushing syndrome, whether the excess cortisol originates from external medications or internal pathology. Persistent cortisol elevation alters metabolism, immune function, and endocrine signaling, producing the characteristic clinical features of the...
01:24Type II Diabetes II: Pathophysiology
PathophysiologyType 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM ) is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by insulin resistance and progressive pancreatic β-cell dysfunction, leading to impaired glucose homeostasis. It results from interactions among genetic predisposition, environmental factors, and metabolic stressors, such as overnutrition and a sedentary lifestyle.Insulin Resistance and Glucose DysregulationEarly T2DM involves insulin resistance in skeletal muscle, adipose tissue, and the liver.