Fat Tissue Plays a Central Role in the Aging Process
Tammy Nguyen, MD, PhD, and Silvia Corvera, MD, published a review article in the journal Nature Metabolism that discusses the role of adipose tissue (fat tissue) in the aging process and its impact on overall health and longevity.
As we age, fat tissue undergoes changes that can influence our metabolism, immune function, and even lifespan. Drs. Nguyen & Corvera highlight that over time fat tissue loses its ability to store and release energy efficiently. This can lead to an imbalance in energy metabolism, contributing to conditions including obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases.
In the article "Adipose tissue as a linchpin of organismal ageing," they explain that as organisms age, there is a tendency for white adipose tissue (which stores energy) to accumulate, while brown adipose tissue (which generates heat and burns energy) decreases. This shift in balance can contribute to metabolic dysfunction, impaired vascular function, and increased inflammation. It can impact brain and liver function, and negatively affect other organs and systems.
Another key aspect is the decline in function and regenerative capacity of adipose tissue stem cells that are responsible for replenishing and maintaining the fat tissue. Age diminishes their ability to differentiate and regenerate, leading to impaired tissue maintenance and repair.
The review highlights potential therapeutic strategies to combat these age-related changes in fat tissue. These include lifestyle modifications like exercise and calorie restriction, as well as potential drug therapies targeting specific pathways in fat tissue.
Dr. Corvera, Professor, Program in Molecular Medicine, Endowed Chair in Diabetes Research, and Director, Clinical Translational Research Pathway, T.H. Chan School of Medicine, is focused on human adipose tissue development and its relationship to whole body insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes.
Dr. Nguyen, Assistant Professor of Surgery, Division of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery at UMass Chan Medical School, and Medical Director, Lower Extremity Wound Clinic at UMass Memorial Medical Center, is a surgeon-scientist whose lab is focused on understanding why people with diabetes have a difficult time with wound healing, particularly foot ulcers, and why they are prone to infection.
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