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Updated: Apr 25, 2026
![Visualization and Quantification of Brown and Beige Adipose Tissues in Mice using [18F]FDG Micro-PET/MR Imaging](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fcloudfront.jove.com%2FCDNSource%2Fteasers%2F62460.jpg&w=3840&q=50)
Visualization and Quantification of Brown and Beige Adipose Tissues in Mice using [18F]FDG Micro-PET/MR Imaging
Published on: July 1, 2021
Brown, beige, and white: the new color code of fat and its pharmacological implications
Alexander Pfeifer1, Linda S Hoffmann
1Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Biomedical Center, University of Bonn, 53105 Bonn, Germany;
Abstract:
Brown adipose tissue (BAT) was previously regarded as a special type of fat relevant only for defending hibernating animals and newborns against a cold environment. Recently, BAT has received considerable attention following its (re)discovery in humans. Using glucose tracers, multiple laboratories independently found metabolically active BAT in adults. The enormous metabolic powers of BAT in animal models could make it an attractive target for antiobesity therapies in humans. Here, we review the present knowledge on the role of BAT in energy homeostasis and metabolism, focusing on signaling pathways and potential targets for novel therapeutics. We also shine light on ongoing debates, including those about the true color of brown fat in adults, as well as on the requirements for translation of basic research on BAT into clinical medicine.
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