Batokines: Mediators of Inter-Tissue Communication (a Mini-Review)

AbstractPurpose of ReviewThis review highlights aspects of brown adipose tissue (BAT) communication with other organ systems and how BAT-to-tissue cross-talk could help elucidate future obesity treatments.Recent FindingsUntil recently, research on BAT has focused mainly on its thermogenic activity. New research has identified an endocrine/paracrine function of BAT and determined that many BAT-derived molecules, termed “batokines,” affect the physiology of a variety of organ systems and cell types. Batokines encompass a variety of signaling molecules including peptides, metabolites, lipids, or microRNAs. Recent studies have noted significant effects of batokines on physiology as it relates whole-body metabolis m and cardiac function. This review will discuss batokines and other BAT processes that affect the liver, cardiovascular system, skeletal muscle, immune cells, and brown and white adipose tissue.SummaryBrown adipose tissue has a crucial secretory function that plays a key role in systemic physiology.
Source: Current Obesity Reports - Category: Eating Disorders & Weight Management Source Type: research