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Interleukin-15 in obesity and metabolic dysfunction: current understanding and future perspectives
1Key Laboratory of Agro-ecological Processes in Subtropical Region, Institute of Subtropical Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Sciences; National Engineering Laboratory for Pollution Control and Waste Utilization in Livestock and Poultry Production; Hunan Provincial Engineering Research Center for Healthy Livestock and Poultry Production; Scientific Observing and Experimental Station of Animal Nutrition and Feed Science in South-Central, Ministry of Agriculture, Changsha, Hunan, China.
Interleukin-15 (IL-15) shows potential in combating obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Research suggests IL-15 may aid in weight loss, improve metabolism, and reduce inflammation, offering a promising therapeutic target.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Metabolic Diseases
- Immunology
Background:
- Obesity is a growing global health issue.
- Obesity is a significant risk factor for chronic diseases, including type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).
- Interleukin-15 (IL-15) is emerging as a key molecule in metabolic regulation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of IL-15 in the context of obesity and T2DM.
- To explore the potential of IL-15 as a therapeutic target for these conditions.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on IL-15's effects.
- Analysis of studies investigating IL-15's impact on fat mass, body weight, and metabolic parameters.
- Examination of IL-15's influence on inflammation, mitochondrial function, and cellular stress.
Main Results:
- IL-15 administration may lead to reduced fat mass and body weight.
- Potential improvements in lipid and glucose metabolism observed.
- Evidence suggests IL-15 can reduce adipose tissue inflammation and endoplasmic reticulum stress.
- Effects on muscle fiber composition and gut microbiota are also noted.
Conclusions:
- IL-15 demonstrates pleiotropic beneficial effects relevant to obesity and T2DM.
- Despite some controversy, IL-15 presents a promising therapeutic avenue for managing obesity and T2DM.
- Further research is warranted to fully elucidate and harness IL-15's potential.
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