Actomyosin-Mediated Tension Orchestrates Uncoupled Respiration in Adipose Tissues
Kevin M Tharp1, Michael S Kang2, Greg A Timblin3
1Program for Metabolic Biology, Department of Nutritional Sciences and Toxicology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA; Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA.
Abstract:
The activation of brown/beige adipose tissue (BAT) metabolism and the induction of uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1) expression are essential for BAT-based strategies to improve metabolic homeostasis. Here, we demonstrate that BAT utilizes actomyosin machinery to generate tensional responses following adrenergic stimulation, similar to muscle tissues. The activation of actomyosin mechanics is critical for the acute induction of oxidative metabolism and uncoupled respiration in UCP1+ adipocytes. Moreover, we show that actomyosin-mediated elasticity regulates the thermogenic capacity of adipocytes via the mechanosensitive transcriptional co-activators YAP and TAZ, which are indispensable for normal BAT function. These biomechanical signaling mechanisms may inform future strategies to promote the expansion and activation of brown/beige adipocytes.
Related Concept Videos
01:10Tension
01:24Respiration
Energy production in the human body is primarily fueled by oxidation, a process where food molecules are burned by combining with oxygen to produce carbon dioxide and water. This vital metabolic process sustains life, and is supported intricately by the respiratory system.
Structure and Function of the Respiratory System:
The respiratory system is a complex network of structures that includes the nose, oropharynx, larynx, trachea,...
02:57Surface Tension, Capillary Action, and Viscosity
The various IMFs between identical molecules of a substance are examples of cohesive forces. The molecules within a liquid are surrounded by other molecules and are attracted equally in all directions by the cohesive forces within the liquid. However, the molecules on the surface of a liquid are attracted only by about one-half as many molecules. Because of the unbalanced molecular attractions on the surface molecules, liquids contract to form a shape that minimizes the number...
01:26Respiration Pathways
01:30Alterations in Respiration II
In Biot's breathing, the respiratory rate and depth are irregular, alternating between periods of deep gasping and apnea. Common causes...
01:22Physiology of Respiration II: Neurogenic Control of Respiration
Central Control
The brainstem is the primary site of central control, hosting respiratory centers: