Tissu adipeux brun et tissu adipeux beige : données actuelles

The confirmation of the presence of brown adipose tissue in human adult has generated enthusiasm on making more research on the topic. This organ which main role is adaptive thermogenesis has the ability to dissipate energy through heat. A better knowledge of the topic would enable the development of new therapeutic anti-obesity and anti-diabetes targets. Under the cold effect, white adipose tissue may present cells like brown adipocytes called 'beige' or “brite” adipocytes. Those cells seem to be able to participate to the thermogenesis even if, physiologically speaking, there is no evidence of their implications. Recent data on the mechanisms enabling the development of those cells under the cold effect, appear to involve the transcription factor PRDM16 and the activation of anti-inflammatory macrophages by interleukins (IL)-4 and IL-13.