miR-150 regulates obesity-associated insulin resistance by controlling B cell functions

Sci Rep. 2016 Feb 1:6:20176. doi: 10.1038/srep20176.

Abstract

Adipose tissue resident B cells account for more than 20% of stromal cells within visceral adipose tissues; however, their functions in the adipose tissue niche are poorly elucidated. Here we report that miR-150 modulates adipose tissue function by controlling activation of B cells and their interactions with other immune cells. miR-150KO mice displayed exacerbated obesity-associated tissue inflammation and systemic insulin resistance, which is recapitulated by adoptive transfer of B cells, but not purified immunoglobulin, into obese B(null) mice. Using purified cell populations, we found that enhanced proinflammatory activation of adipose tissue T cells and macrophages was due to miR-150KO B cells action but not cell-autologous mechanisms. miR-150KO B cells displayed significantly enhanced antigen presentation upon stimulation, ultimately leading to elevated inflammation and insulin resistance, compared to wild type B cells. Knockdown of identified miR-150 target genes, Elk1, Etf1 or Myb attenuated B cell action by altering B cell receptor pathways and MHCII cell surface presentation. Our results demonstrate a critical role for miR-150 in regulating B cell functions in adipose tissue which ultimately regulate both metabolic and immunologic homeostasis in the adipose tissue niche.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adipose Tissue / pathology
  • Animals
  • B-Lymphocytes / metabolism*
  • Cell Communication
  • Glucose / metabolism
  • HEK293 Cells
  • Humans
  • Inflammation / genetics
  • Inflammation / pathology
  • Insulin Resistance / genetics*
  • Macrophages / metabolism
  • Male
  • Mice, Inbred C57BL
  • MicroRNAs / genetics
  • MicroRNAs / metabolism*
  • Models, Biological
  • Obesity / genetics*
  • Obesity / immunology*
  • T-Lymphocytes / metabolism

Substances

  • MicroRNAs
  • Mirn150 microRNA, mouse
  • Glucose