Open AccessInflammation and Immunity: From an Adipocyte's Perspective
Author(s) -
Christine M. Chan,
Michelle S M A Damen,
Pablo C. Alarcon,
Joan Sanchez-Gurmaches,
Senad Divanovic
Publication year - 2019
Publication title -
journal of interferon and cytokine research
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.031
H-Index - 94
eISSN - 1557-7465
pISSN - 1079-9907
DOI - 10.1089/jir.2019.0014
Subject(s) - adipocyte , inflammation , immune system , immunity , biology , function (biology) , immunology , microbiology and biotechnology , adipose tissue , endocrinology
Comprehension of adipocyte function has evolved beyond a long-held belief of their inert nature, as simple energy storing and releasing cells. Adipocytes, including white, brown, and beige, are capable mediators of global metabolic health, but their intersection with inflammation is a budding field of exploration. Evidence hints at a reciprocal relationship adipocytes share with immune cells. Adipocyte's capacity to behave in an "immune-like" manner and ability to sense inflammatory cues that subsequently alter core adipocyte function might play an important role in shaping immune responses. Clarifying this intricate relationship could uncover previously underappreciated contribution of adipocytes to inflammation-driven human health and disease. In this review, we highlight the potential of largely underappreciated adipocyte "immune-like" function and how it may contribute to inflammation, immunity, and pathology of various diseases.