Adipose tissue catecholamine resistance: a metabolic safeguard that challenges weight control

Catecholamine resistance in adipose tissue encompasses an articulated network of cellular and molecular adaptations to inflammatory and neuroendocrine signals in obesity. By dampening adrenergic signaling, these adaptations may serve a protective role, shielding tissues from excessive catecholamine stimulation and the metabolic stress induced by inflammatory signals. However, reduced adrenergic responsiveness also constrains lipolysis and thermogenesis in adipose tissue, limiting the ability to mobilize fat during caloric restriction or increased energy demand. Thus, while initially adaptive, catecholamine resistance under conditions of nutrient excess may reinforce energy storage and promote weight persistence in obesity. In this work, we examine the neuro-endocrine framework underlying catecholamine resistance in adipose tissue, with the aim of elucidating its implications for metabolic homeostasis and body weight regulation in obesity.