Endocrinol Metab.  2023 Oct;38(5):493-503. 10.3803/EnM.2023.1813.

The Emerging Importance of Mitochondria in White Adipocytes: Neither Last nor Least

• Cai J
• Wang F
• Shao M

• KMID: 2546980
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.3803/EnM.2023.1813

Abstract

The growing recognition of mitochondria’s crucial role in the regulation of white adipose tissue remodeling and energy balance underscores its significance. The marked metabolic diversity of mitochondria provides the molecular and cellular foundation for enabling adipose tissue plasticity in response to various metabolic cues. Effective control of mitochondrial function at the cellular level, not only in thermogenic brown and beige adipocytes but also in energy-storing white adipocytes, exerts a profound influence on adipose homeostasis. Furthermore, mitochondria play a pivotal role in intercellular communication within adipose tissue via production of metabolites with signaling properties. A more comprehensive understanding of mitochondrial regulation within white adipocytes will empower the development of targeted and efficacious strategies to enhance adipose function, leading to advancements in overall metabolic health.

Keyword

White adipocyte; Mitochondria; Adipose tissue remodeling; Metabolic health; Signaling metabolite

Figure

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  Fig. 1. Mitochondrial function in white adipocytes. Glucose and branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) derived from nutrients are used for energy production and other maintenance functions of the cell. Glucose is converted into pyruvate via glycolysis, and pyruvate-derived acetyl-coenzyme A (CoA) enters the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle for adenosine triphosphate (ATP) production. BCAAs are catabolized into branched-chain keto acids (BCKAs) and further to the TCA cycle. Creatine and phosphocreatine, through the phosphocreatine shuttle system, play an important role in the regulation and homeostasis of cellular energy metabolism. Reactive oxygen species (ROS), mainly generated in mitochondria, are increasingly viewed as signaling molecules. Succinate, transported from the mitochondria, can act on succinate receptor (SUCNR1) and inhibit lipolysis by dampening the cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP)-phosphorylated hormone-sensitive lipase (pHSL) pathway.

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