by Obesity, a global health concern affecting approximately 16% of the world’s population as per the World Health Organization (WHO), is a leading cause of various metabolic disorders such as diabetes, hypertension, and atherosclerosis. One of the primary contributors to these conditions is the infiltration of macrophages into adipose tissue, which can either help maintain tissue balance or trigger inflammatory responses.
In obese individuals, the population of inflammatory macrophages increases significantly, exacerbating inflammation and metabolic dysfunction. A recent study, published in Nature Communications, led by Professor Jong Kyoung Kim from the Department of Life Sciences at Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), aimed to understand the underlying mechanisms of this process.
The researchers employed animal trials, single-nucleus RNA sequencing, and intravital imaging techniques to investigate TM4SF19, a protein specifically present in inflammatory macrophages. Their findings revealed a marked increase in TM4SF19 levels within the adipose tissue of animal subjects on a immune system.
The team discovered that TM4SF19 inhibits a pump (V-ATPase) in lysosomes, which are responsible for harboring hydrolytic enzymes and regulating lysosomal pH. This inhibition impedes the phagocytic process, preventing macrophages from eliminating spent adipocytes.
However, macrophages lacking TM4SF19 demonstrated enhanced efficiency in clearing deceased adipocytes, resulting in weight loss and improved metabolic function. This discovery highlights the importance of TM4SF19 in regulating inflammation and enhancing metabolic function in obesity.
Professor Jong Kyoung Kim commented, “We have successfully identified the mechanism behind TM4SF19’s role in regulating lysosomal activity. Our findings may pave the way for new treatments for obesity and related metabolic disorders.”
In summary, this research provides valuable insights into the role of TM4SF19 in obesity-related inflammation and metabolic dysfunction, potentially opening new avenues for the development of effective treatments.
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1.Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2.We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
