Polyphenol enriched fruit extracts as alternative therapy against adipocyte dysfunctions associated with obesity and metabolic disorders

Abstract

Role of adipose tissue in the development of obesity and associated co-morbidities: investigation of molecular mechanism and search for alternative therapies. The exponential growth of obesity in the world is associated with a marked increase in the prevalence of several morbidities directly associated with excessive adiposity as Type 2 Diabetes (T2D), Metabolic Syndrome (MS), atherosclerosis, hypertension, stroke, hepatic steatosis and some types of cancer. The main goal of the current research proposal is to investigate the molecular mechanisms linking obesity and the development of T2D and MS, focusing on the role of adipose tissue, through the cross-talking with central nervous system, liver and heart, as the main origin of these complications (adipocentric theory). More specifically, the current research proposal consists of three integrated research programs that will investigate: 1- the role of sympathetic nervous system in the control of adipose tissue insulin sensitivity, inflammation, metabolic and endocrine functions; 2- the mechanism underlying the modulation of liver and adipose tissue transcriptional activity of PPAR and lipid and glucose metabolism by mTOR; and 3- the mechanisms involved in the fat redistribution, heart remodeling and positive energy balance induced by PPARy activation and the contribution of adiponectin to these effects. (AU)