Subcutaneous adipose tissue: Implications in dermatological diseases and beyond

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Dermatology
• Metabolic Science

Background:

• Subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) is the deepest skin layer, traditionally associated with energy storage.
• Emerging research highlights SAT's significant role in immune and metabolic processes, extending beyond the skin.
• The immune functions of SAT are less understood compared to other adipose depots like mesenteric adipose tissue.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive overview of SAT structure and function.
• To highlight recent advancements in understanding SAT's role in homeostasis and disease.
• To identify key areas for future research regarding SAT's immunologic functions.

Main Methods:

• This review synthesizes current literature on subcutaneous adipose tissue.
• It examines SAT's cellular composition and its impact on local and systemic processes.
• The review discusses SAT's involvement in various pathological conditions.

Main Results:

• SAT contains immune and stromal cells influencing skin and systemic metabolic and immunologic functions.
• These functions are critical in wound healing, infections, immunometabolic disorders, autoimmune diseases, and cancer.
• SAT plays a role in both maintaining health and contributing to disease states.

Conclusions:

• A deeper understanding of SAT's immune functions is essential for developing novel therapeutic strategies.
• Targeting SAT may offer new treatments for skin-specific, cutaneous, and systemic conditions.
• Further research is needed to fully elucidate SAT's complex roles in health and disease.