Characterization of the molecular mechanisms determining the energy balance, glucose homeostasis and hepatomegaly in mice with severe lipodystrophy

Abstract

Lipodystrophy comprises a group of diseases characterized by either a partial or a complete reduction in adipose mass that is associated with the development of several metabolic diseases such as insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, hypertension, hepatic steatosis and atherosclerosis, among others. In this proposal, we will investigate in 3 integrated research programs the molecular mechanisms involved: 1- in the increase in energy expenditure and hyperphagia; 2- in the glucose intolerance and insulin resistance; and 3- in the hepatic steatosis and hepatomegaly displayed by mice with complete absence of adipose tissue (severe lipodystrophy) induced by the deletion of PPARgamma exclusively in adipocytes. (AU)