Epigenetic Regulation of Thermogenic Adipocytes Differentiation and Program: A New Approach to the Treatment of Obesity

Obesity is a condition characterized by excessive accumulation of adipose tissue and plays a conspicuous role in reducing quality of life, and the occurrence of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes and cancer. Adipose tissue is made up of three types of adipocytes, including white, brown and beige. Brown and beige adipocytes are capable of thermogenic activity and can dissipate energy as heat, in response to some environmental stimuli. Beige adipose tissue is derived from white adipose tissue in response to environmental stimuli including cold, a process called browning. More accurate identification of the major transcription regulators and related cascades, i.e. epigenetic mechanisms, activated in response to environmental factors and regulate the browning process and thermogenic function of brown and beige adipocytes, can allow the in vivo control of thermogenic function or its intensity in these cells. Controlling this process, while providing ease and safety, gives the opportunity for new drug therapies for obesity and related illnesses. In this study, while briefly reviewing the process of adipocyte differentiation and providing an introduction on epigenetic mechanisms, and their roles in the browning process, related studies on obesity treatment have been addressed.