Official websites use. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites. Reviewed by: Kristy L. This article was submitted to Cellular Biochemistry, a section of the journal Frontiers in Cell and Developmental Biology. The use, distribution or reproduction in other forums is permitted, provided the original author s and the copyright owner s are credited and that the original publication in this journal is cited, in accordance with accepted academic practice. No use, distribution or reproduction is permitted which does not comply with these terms.
In humans, various dietary and social factors led to the development of increased brain sizes alongside large adipose tissue stores. Complex reciprocal signaling mechanisms allow for a fine-tuned interaction between the two organs to regulate energy homeostasis of the organism. As an endocrine organ, adipose tissue secretes various hormones, cytokines, and metabolites that signal energy availability to the central nervous system CNS.
Vice versa, the CNS is a critical regulator of adipose tissue function through neural networks that integrate information from the periphery and regulate sympathetic nerve outflow.
This review discusses the various reciprocal signaling mechanisms in the CNS and adipose tissue to maintain organismal energy homeostasis. We are focusing on the integration of afferent signals from the periphery in neuronal populations of the mediobasal hypothalamus as well as the efferent signals from the CNS to adipose tissue and its implications for adipose tissue function.
Furthermore, we are discussing central mechanisms that fine-tune the immune system in adipose tissue depots and contribute to organ homeostasis.
