Inflamed Adipose Tissue: Therapeutic Targets for Obesity-related Endothelial Injury

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death worldwide and is primarily associated with obesity, visceral adiposity, and unhealthy perivascular adipose tissue (PVAT). The inflammatory polarization of immune cells residing in adipose tissue and abnormal levels of adipose-related cytokines are crucial factors contributing to the pathogenesis of metabolic disorders. We reviewed the most relevant papers in the English literature regarding PVAT and obesity-related inflammation and CVD, aiming to explore potential therapeutic targets for metabolic alterations related to CV health. Such an understanding will help determine the pathogenetic relationship between obesity and vascular injury in efforts to ameliorate obesity-related inflammatory responses. In the context of obesity, dysregulation of adipose tissue immune function, which consists of immune cells and adipose-derived cytokines, plays a crucial role in vascular injury and endothelial dysfunction, especially the PVAT. Metabolic changes between typical VAT and PVAT in obese conditions would be beneficial in improving the risk of obesity-induced endothelial dysfunction and CVDs.