The implication of brown adipose tissue for humans
Eric Ravussin1, José E Galgani
1Human Physiology, Pennington Biomedical Research Center, Baton Rouge, LA 70808, USA. eric.ravussin@pbrc.edu
Annual Review of Nutrition
|May 10, 2011
Summary
Brown adipose tissue (BAT) generates heat by burning energy, but its role in weight control is debated. Research suggests BAT may be a target for managing body weight and obesity.
Area of Science:
- Metabolism and Endocrinology
- Adipose Tissue Biology
Background:
- Brown adipose tissue (BAT) is characterized by high mitochondrial content and uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1).
- BAT adipocytes are energy inefficient for ATP production but efficient for heat generation.
- This thermogenic capacity is crucial for regulating body temperature.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of brown adipose tissue in energy homeostasis.
- To assess the potential of brown adipose tissue as a target for body weight management.
- To discuss the physiological relevance of BAT thermogenesis in human body weight control.
Main Methods:
- Literature review on brown adipose tissue function and obesity.
- Analysis of studies on human adult BAT discovery and development.
- Discussion of thermogenic properties and their relation to energy balance.
Main Results:
- Brown adipose tissue's thermogenic function is well-established for temperature regulation.
- Evidence suggests a potential link between reduced BAT mass/activity and obesity in humans.
- The precise role of BAT in long-term body weight regulation remains under investigation.
Conclusions:
- Brown adipose tissue holds potential as a therapeutic target for obesity treatment.
- Further research is needed to fully elucidate BAT's role in human energy balance and weight management.
- Understanding BAT mechanisms could lead to novel strategies for combating obesity.
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