Background: Recruiting thermogenic adipocytes in white adipose tissue represents a potential therapeutic strategy for obesity. Interestingly, PPARγ, a major regulator of lipogenesis, is also a key factor in inducing thermogenic genes in adipose tissue.
Scope of the review: We summarize some of the recent findings regarding the biology of beige adipocytes and their potential significance for metabolic health. We also discuss the role of PPARγ in development of beige adipocyte phenotype and in inducing two apparently divergent processes, namely, lipogenesis and thermogenesis.
Major conclusions: PPARγ post-translation modifications and differential coregulator recruitment may be key factors in defining adipocyte commitment with lipogenesis or thermogenesis.
General significance: Dissecting the mechanisms underlying its thermogenic effects may prompt the development of a new generation of PPARγ-based therapies.
Keywords: Beige adipocytes; PPARγ; PPARγ agonists; Thermogenesis.
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