The 146th Annual Meeting of the Pharmaceutical Society of Japan (Osaka)

Organizer: Koichi Hamada (Dep. Pharmacotherapeutics, Showa Pharmaceutical Univ.), Gen-Ichi Atsumi (School of Pharma-Sciences, Teikyo Univ.)

Adipocytes were once considered merely passive energy storage depots. However, recent studies have revealed that they are endocrine organs that secrete bioactive molecules that regulate systemic metabolism and maintain whole-body homeostasis. Adipocytes are now recognized as highly dynamic and heterogeneous populations. The functions of brown adipocytes in adults are gradually being elucidated, suggesting their involvement in thermogenesis, energy expenditure, and potentially extending healthy lifespans. Adipocytes are important not only for quantitative changes, but also for qualitative alterations that influence metabolic balance. From this viewpoint, adipocyte research is directly linked to the understanding of lifestyle-related diseases and the development of novel therapies. This symposium will focus on the physiological functions of adipocytes, as well as their dysfunction, which leads to pathological states—the "light and shadow" of adipocyte biology. The "light" aspect includes the differentiation and physiological significance of white adipocytes as energy-storing cells, as well as the thermogenic role of brown adipocytes. We will also address the mechanisms by which adipose tissue regulates aging and lifespan. Regarding the "shadow" aspect, we will discuss hypertrophic adipocytes with impaired insulin sensitivity and explore therapeutic possibilities that target qualitative changes in adipose tissue as new strategies for treating obesity.