Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 17, 2026

Artificial Intelligence Approaches to Assessing Primary Cilia
Published on: May 1, 2021
Primary cilia dysfunction: A critical driver of metabolic diseases (Review)
Xiaojing Wang1, Yi Jin2, Kejia Xie3
1Shijiazhuang Modern Agricultural School, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050000, P.R. China.
Abstract:
Cilia dysfunction has been identified as a crucial but frequently overlooked factor in the pathogenesis of metabolic diseases, including obesity and diabetes. This review examines the multifaceted roles of primary cilia in various metabolic tissues, framed by a central bidirectional model. This model posits a self‑reinforcing cycle where disruptions in ciliary function contribute to dysregulated appetite control, impaired insulin secretion and increased fat storage. Conversely, the hallmarks of metabolic disease, including chronic inflammation, lipotoxicity and hyperglycemia, contribute to the impairment of ciliary structure and function, thereby accelerating disease progression. The review underscores this reciprocal causality and proposes that therapeutic strategies targeting ciliary function could break this vicious cycle. Emerging treatments aim to restore ciliary function and thereby mitigate the progression of metabolic diseases. By elucidating the mechanisms of this bidirectional relationship, this review aims to pave the way for innovative strategies that optimize clinical outcomes and improve patient quality of life.
Related Concept Videos
Microtubules in Signaling
Type II Diabetes I: Introduction
Mechanism of Ciliary Motion
The cilia are made up of microtubules in a 9+2 arrangement, with nine microtubule doublet ring bundles, surrounding a pair of central singlet microtubule bundles. The doublet microtubule bundles are...
Cystic Fibrosis: Pathogenesis
CF is primarily caused by a genetic mutation in a chromosome 7 gene coding for the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) protein. The most common gene mutation leading to CF is the ΔF508 mutation, but...
Overview of Lipid Metabolism
Lipolysis: The Breakdown of Lipids:
Lipolysis is the process of breaking down lipids, particularly triglycerides, into glycerol and fatty acids. This process typically occurs in the adipose tissue and is triggered by various hormones, including glucagon and...
Overview of Carbohydrate Metabolism
Glucose transport into cells is facilitated by a family of transport proteins called GLUT (Glucose Transporters). GLUT4 is the primary glucose transporter for insulin-stimulated glucose...

