Inflamed adipose tissue: Therapeutic targets for obesity-related endothelial injury.

Abstract

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death worldwide and is primarily associated with obesity, visceral adiposity, and unhealthy perivascular adipose tissue. The inflammatory polarization of immune cells residing in adipose tissue and abnormal levels of adipose-related cytokines are crucial factors contributing to the pathogenesis of metabolic disorders. We reviewed the most relevant papers in the English literature regarding perivascular adipose tissue and obesity related inflammation and cardiovascular disease, aimed to explore potential therapeutic targets for metabolic alterations related to cardiovascular health. Such an understanding will help determine the pathogenetic relationship between obesity and vascular injury in efforts to ameliorate obesity-related inflammatory responses. In the context of obesity, dysregulation of adipose tissue immune function, which consists of immune cells and adipose-derived cytokines, plays a crucial role in vascular injury and endothelial dysfunction, especially the perivascular adipose tissue. Metabolic changes between typical visceral adipose tissue and perivascular adipose tissue in obese conditions would be beneficial in improving the risk of obesity-induced endothelial dysfunction and CVDs.