Recent research from ETH Zurich and Leipzig University has uncovered new insights into why some obese individuals remain metabolically healthy while others develop metabolic diseases like diabetes and high blood pressure. The study, which focused on the gene activity in fat tissue from both healthy and unhealthy obese individuals, aims to uncover the cellular differences that influence the risk of these conditions.
The study used samples from the Leipzig Obesity Biobank, a large collection of tissue from obese patients who underwent surgery and consented to participate in research. By analyzing these samples, the researchers mapped gene activity in two types of fat tissue—subcutaneous and visceral—on a cell-by-cell basis, offering a deeper understanding of the genetic factors involved.
Key findings from the study include:
Visceral fat changes: Visceral fat, which surrounds internal organs, showed significant functional changes in individuals with metabolic diseases. These changes affected almost all cell types, including fat cells, which became less efficient at burning fat and more likely to produce immune system molecules that trigger inflammation.
Mesothelial cells: Healthy obese individuals had a higher proportion of mesothelial cells in their visceral fat. These cells, which line the fat tissue, were more functionally flexible, capable of converting into other cell types, including fat cells, suggesting a smoother tissue expansion that may help prevent the onset of metabolic diseases.
Gender differences: The study also noted differences between men and women, particularly in the presence of certain progenitor cells found only in the visceral fat of women. These cells may explain the differing ways in which men and women develop metabolic diseases.
The researchers have created an atlas of the gene activity in adipose tissue, making this valuable data publicly available via a web app. This will allow other researchers to identify biomarkers that can predict the risk of metabolic diseases and potentially guide new treatments.
While the study can’t definitively say whether these differences in gene activity are the cause of metabolic health or simply a result of the diseases, it offers a solid foundation for future research. The scientists hope that their findings will lead to the discovery of new biomarkers for early detection and better-targeted treatments for metabolic diseases.
In particular, the researchers are focusing on identifying which patients would most benefit from a new class of drugs that suppress appetite and promote insulin release. With this data, they aim to improve treatment outcomes for those at risk of developing diabetes, high blood pressure, and other related conditions.
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