A BAT-centric approach to the treatment of diabetes: Turn on the brain

Mohammed K. Hankir, Michael A. Cowley, Wiebke K. Fenske

Research output: Contribution to journalReview ArticleOtherpeer-review

29 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

The marked (18)F-flurodeoxyglucose uptake by brown adipose tissue (BAT) enabled its identification in human positron emission tomography imaging studies. In this Perspective, we discuss how glucose extraction by BAT and beige adipose tissue (BeAT) sufficiently impacts on glycemic control. We then present a unique overview of the central circuits modulated by gluco-regulatory hormones, temperature, and glucose itself, which converge on sympathetic preganglionic neurons and whose activation syphon circulating glucose into BAT/BeAT. Targeted stimulation of the sympathetic nervous system at specific nodes to selectively recruit BAT/BeAT may represent a safe and effective means of treating diabetes.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)31-40
Number of pages10
JournalCell Metabolism
Volume24
Issue number1
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 12 Jul 2016

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