B Lymphocytes in obesity-related adipose tissue inflammation and insulin resistance

Cell Mol Life Sci. 2014 Mar;71(6):1033-43. doi: 10.1007/s00018-013-1486-y. Epub 2013 Oct 15.

Abstract

Obesity-related insulin resistance is a chronic inflammatory condition that often gives rise to type 2 diabetes (T2D). Much evidence supports a role for pro-inflammatory T cells and macrophages in promoting local inflammation in tissues such as visceral adipose tissue (VAT) leading to insulin resistance. More recently, B cells have emerged as an additional critical player in orchestrating these processes. B cells infiltrate VAT and display functional and phenotypic changes in response to diet-induced obesity. B cells contribute to insulin resistance by presenting antigens to T cells, secreting inflammatory cytokines, and producing pathogenic antibodies. B cell manipulation represents a novel approach to the treatment of obesity-related insulin resistance and potentially to the prevention of T2D. This review summarizes the roles of B cells in governing VAT inflammation and the mechanisms by which these cells contribute to altered glucose homeostasis in insulin resistance.

Publication types

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

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • B-Lymphocytes / immunology*
  • B-Lymphocytes / pathology
  • Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2 / immunology
  • Humans
  • Inflammation / immunology*
  • Inflammation / physiopathology
  • Insulin Resistance / immunology*
  • Insulin Resistance / physiology
  • Intra-Abdominal Fat / cytology
  • Intra-Abdominal Fat / immunology*
  • Lymphocyte Activation / immunology
  • Mice
  • Mice, Inbred C57BL
  • Obesity / immunology
  • Obesity / pathology*