Review: Epigenetic regulation of adipocyte differentiation and adipogenesis

J Zhejiang Univ Sci B. 2010 Oct;11(10):784-91. doi: 10.1631/jzus.B0900401.

Abstract

It is generally agreed that adipocytes originate from mesenchymal stem cells in what can be divided into two processes: determination and differentiation. In the past decade, many factors associated with epigenetic signals have been proved to be pivotal for the appropriate timing of adipogenesis progression. A large number of coregulators at critical gene promoters set up specific patterns of DNA methylation, histone acetylation and methylation, and nucleosome rearrangement, that act as an epigenetic code to modulate the correct progress of adipocyte differentiation and adipogenesis during adipogenesis. In this review, we focus on the functions and roles of epigenetic processes in preadipocyte differentiation and adipogenesis.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adipocytes / cytology*
  • Adipogenesis*
  • Animals
  • CCAAT-Enhancer-Binding Protein-alpha / physiology
  • Cell Differentiation*
  • Epigenesis, Genetic*
  • Humans
  • PPAR gamma / genetics
  • Retinoblastoma Protein / physiology
  • Sterol Regulatory Element Binding Protein 1 / physiology
  • Transcription, Genetic

Substances

  • CCAAT-Enhancer-Binding Protein-alpha
  • PPAR gamma
  • Retinoblastoma Protein
  • Sterol Regulatory Element Binding Protein 1