Mitochondrial dysfunction in white adipose tissue

Although mitochondria in brown adipose tissue and their role in non-shivering thermogenesis have been widely studied, we have only a limited understanding of the relevance of mitochondria in white adipose tissue (WAT) for cellular homeostasis of the adipocyte and their impact upon systemic energy homeostasis. A better understanding of the regulatory role that white adipocyte mitochondria play in the regulation of whole-body physiology becomes increasingly important. WAT mitochondrial biogenesis can effectively be induced pharmacologically using a number of agents, including PPAR gamma agonists. Through their ability to influence key biochemical processes central to the adipocyte, such as fatty acid (FA) esterification and lipogenesis, as well as their impact upon the production and release of key adipokines, mitochondria play a crucial role in determining systemic insulin sensitivity.