The role of adipose TRP channels in the pathogenesis of obesity
Peng Gao1, Zhencheng Yan1, Zhiming Zhu1
1Department of Hypertension and Endocrinology, Center for Hypertension and Metabolic Diseases, Daping Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing Institute of Hypertension, Chongqing, China.
Abstract:
The prevalence of obesity is continuously increasing worldwide. Transient receptor potential (TRP) channels constitute a family of nonselective cation channels that are ubiquitously expressed in mammalian tissues, including adipose tissue. Although TRP channels might be regarded as therapeutic targets for obesity due to the inhibitory effects of their agonists on body weight and adiposity, the exact role of TRP channels in the development of obesity by modulating the function of adipose tissue has not been systemically reviewed. Multiple TRP channels are present in adipocytes and are involved in diverse aspects of cellular function, including differentiation and maturation of white adipose tissue (WAT), browning of WAT and thermogenesis of brown adipose tissue (BAT). Most of these functions are mediated by alterations in intracellular Ca2+ levels or subcellular Ca2+ signaling pathway. TRP channels influence intracellular Ca2+ dynamics through directly mediating Ca2+ entry (TRPVs and others) or store-operated mechanisms (TRPCs). Intracellular Ca2+ displays a biphasic effect on regulation adipocyte behaviors depending on the differentiation stage, which may account for the different roles of individual TRP channels in regulation of adiposity. This review emphasizes the contribution of TRP channels to obesity and provide an in-depth discussion on the complexity of their mechanism of actions.
Insights
Transient receptor potential (TRP) channels in adipose tissue influence obesity by modulating fat cell function and energy balance. Understanding TRP channel roles in adipocyte differentiation and thermogenesis is key for developing new obesity treatments.
Area of Science:
- Physiology
- Molecular Biology
- Metabolic Diseases
Background:
- Global obesity rates are rising, necessitating novel therapeutic targets.
- Transient receptor potential (TRP) channels are expressed in adipose tissue and influence cellular functions.
- The precise role of TRP channels in obesity development via adipose tissue modulation requires systematic review.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review the contribution of TRP channels to obesity.
- To discuss the complex mechanisms by which TRP channels modulate adipose tissue function.
- To explore TRP channel involvement in adipocyte differentiation, WAT browning, and BAT thermogenesis.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of existing literature on TRP channels and obesity.
- Analysis of TRP channel involvement in adipocyte differentiation and function.
- Examination of TRP channel roles in white adipose tissue (WAT) browning and brown adipose tissue (BAT) thermogenesis.
Main Results:
- Multiple TRP channels are present in adipocytes, impacting WAT differentiation and BAT thermogenesis.
- TRP channels influence intracellular Ca2+ dynamics, affecting adipocyte behavior.
- Ca2+ signaling mediated by TRP channels (e.g., TRPVs, TRPCs) plays a crucial role in adiposity regulation.
Conclusions:
- TRP channels are significant contributors to obesity through their regulation of adipose tissue.
- The complex, stage-dependent effects of intracellular Ca2+ on adipocytes highlight the intricate roles of individual TRP channels.
- TRP channels represent potential therapeutic targets for obesity management.
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