Advances in research on thermogenic substances

Area of Science:

• Physiology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Mammals require constant body temperature for survival, especially in cold environments.
• Thermogenic mechanisms are crucial for maintaining core body temperature during cold exposure.
• Shivering thermogenesis (ST) and non-shivering thermogenesis (NST) are primary responses, with emerging pathways also identified.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review advances in research on cold-adaptive thermogenic substances and their regulation.
• To provide a theoretical foundation for developing effective cold-resistance preparations with minimal side effects.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of thermogenic responses to cold exposure.
• Analysis of mechanisms of action for various thermogenic substances.
• Discussion of emerging thermogenic pathways.

Main Results:

• Identified primary thermogenic responses: shivering thermogenesis (ST) and non-shivering thermogenesis (NST).
• Detailed the action mechanisms of thermogenic substances including nutrients, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), TCM extracts, and dietary functional factors.
• Highlighted emerging thermogenic pathways.

Conclusions:

• Understanding thermogenic substances and their regulation is key to enhancing cold adaptation.
• Nutrients, TCM, and functional dietary factors show potential as cold-resistance agents.
• This review provides a basis for developing novel cold-resistance preparations with improved safety profiles.