Crosstalk between microRNAs and autophagy in adipocyte differentiation: emerging therapeutic targets for obesity

Obesity remains a global health challenge, underscoring the need for more effective therapeutic strategies. Recent evidence highlights the central role of adipose tissue autophagy in metabolic homoeostasis, with its dysregulation contributing to obesity-related pathophysiology. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have emerged as critical regulators of autophagy in adipocytes, influencing differentiation, lipid metabolism, and systemic energy balance. This review synthesizes current knowledge on how specific miRNAs modulate autophagic activity in adipose tissue and discusses their functional impact on adipocyte biology. Based on the accumulated evidence, we conclude that targeting miRNA-mediated autophagy pathways holds significant therapeutic potential for obesity and related metabolic disorders. Future research should focus on translating these mechanistic insights into targeted interventions, overcoming delivery challenges, and advancing miRNA-based therapeutics towards clinical application.