Dual Role of Transcription Factors in the Development and Thermogenic Function of Brown Adipose Tissue

Obesity, a major global health challenge, is intricately linked to various metabolic disorders, primarily driven by an imbalance between energy intake and expenditure. Brown adipose tissue (BAT), through its unique thermogenic capability, dissipates energy as heat, playing a vital role in regulating energy homeostasis and maintaining body temperature. Recent studies have revealed a complex regulatory network involving multiple transcription factors (e.g., PPARγ, EBF2, ZFP516, FOXP1) and signaling pathways (e.g., cAMP-PKA, AMPK, mTOR), which act synergistically to finely tune the development and thermogenic function of BAT. Furthermore, gene therapy based on adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors, which enhances the thermogenic capacity of BAT, provides a highly promising strategy for addressing obesity and metabolic disorders. Additionally, several natural product extracts including Artemisia argyi oil and capsaicin may activate BAT thermogenesis with fewer side effects, representing potential safe and effective dietary supplements for combating obesity in the future. A deeper understanding of these mechanisms may lead to novel therapeutic approaches targeting obesity and metabolic disorders, paving the way for new interventions to improve human health.