Effect of Thyroid Hormones on Adipose Tissue Flexibility
Lisa Volke, Kerstin Krause
Abstract
The recruitment and activation of energy-consuming brown adipocytes is currently considered as potential therapeutic approach to combat obesity. Thyroid hormones (TH) significantly contribute to full thermogenic capacity of brown adipocytes. A number of recent studies suggest that TH also induce the recruitment of brown adipocytes in white adipose depots, a process known as browning. In this review, we will summarize underlying mechanisms by which TH mediate brown adipose tissue activity and white adipose tissue browning. Furthermore, we will discuss the relevance of TH-induced white adipose tissue browning for thermoregulation.
Topics & Concepts
Adipose tissueWhite adipose tissueBrowningBrown adipose tissueEndocrinologyInternal medicineMedicineHormoneThyroid hormonesThyroidBiologyHorticultureAdipose Tissue and MetabolismCardiovascular Disease and AdiposityAdipokines, Inflammation, and Metabolic Diseases