FSH regulates fat accumulation and redistribution in aging through the Gαi/Ca(2+)/CREB pathway

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Metabolism
• Aging Research

Background:

• Aging is associated with increased body fat and altered fat distribution.
• While decreased sex hormones are noted, the precise mechanisms of age-related fat changes remain unclear.
• Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), a gonadotropin, rises with age in both sexes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the role of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and its receptor in age-related fat accumulation.
• To elucidate the molecular mechanisms by which FSH influences adipose tissue in aging.

Main Methods:

• Functional expression analysis of FSH receptors in human and mouse adipose tissues and adipocytes.
• In vitro and in vivo studies assessing the effects of FSH on lipid biosynthesis, droplet formation, and adipokine secretion.
• Investigation of the signaling pathway involving FSH receptors, Gαi protein, Ca(2+) influx, and gene activation.

Main Results:

• FSH receptors are functionally expressed in fat tissues and adipocytes.
• FSH promotes lipid biosynthesis and lipid droplet formation, and alters leptin and adiponectin secretion.
• The FSH signaling pathway involves Gαi protein, Ca(2+) influx, and activation of lipid biosynthesis genes.

Conclusions:

• FSH receptor signaling is a key mechanism driving lipodystrophy and fat accumulation in aging.
• This study reveals the molecular basis for age-related fat redistribution in both males and females.
• FSH represents a potential therapeutic target for managing age-related metabolic changes.