The carbohydrate response element binding protein (ChREBP) is a glucose-responsive transcription factor that increases the transcription of multiple genes. ChREBP is highly localized in the liver, whe Show more
The carbohydrate response element binding protein (ChREBP) is a glucose-responsive transcription factor that increases the transcription of multiple genes. ChREBP is highly localized in the liver, where it upregulates the expression of genes that code for glycolytic and lipogenic enzymes, resulting in the conversion of excess carbohydrate into storage fat. ChREBP knockout (KO) mice display an anti-obese phenotype. However, at this time, role of ChREBP in adipose tissue remains unclear. Therefore, the energy metabolism and morphology of mitochondrial brown adipose tissue (BAT) in ChREBP KO mice was examined. We found increased expression levels of electron transport system proteins including the mitochondrial uncoupling protein (UCP1), and mitochondrial structural alterations such as dysplasia of the cristae and the presence of small mitochondria in BAT of ChREBP KO mice. Mass spectrometry analyses revealed that fatty acid synthase was absent in the BAT of ChREBP KO mice, which probably led to a reduction in fatty acids and cardiolipin, a regulator of various mitochondrial events. Our study clarified the new role of ChREBP in adipose tissue and its involvement in mitochondrial function. A clearer understanding of ChREBP in mitochondria could pave the way for improvements in obesity management. Show less
The cytokine, interleukin-18 (IL-18), was originally identified as an interferon-γ-inducing proinflammatory factor; however, there is increasing evidence suggesting that it has non-immunological effec Show more
The cytokine, interleukin-18 (IL-18), was originally identified as an interferon-γ-inducing proinflammatory factor; however, there is increasing evidence suggesting that it has non-immunological effects on physiological functions. We have previously investigated the potential pathophysiological relationship between IL-18 and dyslipidemia, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, which were mediated by lipid energy imbalance. Therefore, herein we focused on brown adipocytes (BAs) and brown adipose tissue (BAT) related to energy consumption as non-shivering thermogenesis. Il18 Compared with Il18 This study demonstrated the critical function of IL-18 in differentiation and lipid metabolism in BAs. Furthermore, IL-18 may contribute to novel treatments by improving the energy imbalance. Show less