Abstract

Metabolic Imaging of White and Brown Adipose Tissues – Impact on Whole Body Metabolism

Jadesh Yaligar, , Singapore Bioimaging Consortium (SBIC)

Inappropriate fuel handling (fat vs sugar) by adipose tissue and other organs along with ectopic lipid deposition plays major role in the onset of insulin resistance. Reduction in dietary fat intake has been widely investigated for the prevention and treatment of obesity. The glycemic index (GI) of the diet is also related to risk of obesity and diabetes. Diets with a higher glycemic index can cause adverse effects on body’s fat composition, postprandial glycaemia and insulinaemia. A high-GI diet has been linked to increased risk of type 2 diabetes independent of bodyweight. High GI diet resembles the food style of of Asians which involves high starch based (rice and noodles) food as their dietary source. In this talk I will highlight some of our results obtained from rodents fed with isocaloric high GI diet. I will also highlight the results of our ongoing projects showing ectopic fat mobilization by activating the BAT with interventions including cold exposure and ß3 adrenoreceptors. The primary function of BAT is to maintain core body temperature in response to cold stress by generating heat, a process known as thermogenesis. BAT is not just mere a fat, but can also function as endocrine organ. In this context, endocrine factors released by BAT may influences metabolism by acting directly on peripheral organs and indirectly through the CNS to produce subsequent whole body systemic effects. Considering the potential of high metabolic activity in BAT, one can explore the mechanistic insights associated with BAT activation and improved insulin sensitivity. Noninvasive metabolic imaging of the BAT for investigating the mechanistic and whole body systemic factors is vital for the development of the novel strategies for controlling the progression of metabolic diseases.