How do xenobiotics affect adipose tissue function and distribution? (B01)

• Subject Area: Endocrinology, Diabetology, Metabolism
• Term: since 2013
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 209933838

Obesity is frequently associated with impaired adipose tissue (AT) function, characterized by adipocyte hypertrophy, impaired subcutaneous AT expandability, hypoxia, a variety of stresses and inflammatory processes. Beyond these endogenous factors, we identified environmental factors (xenobiotics) that might contribute either alone or via interaction with intrinsic biological factors to AT heterogeneity. Our main hypothesis is that selected xenobiotics contribute to dysfunction of AT. We aim to unravel the effects of Ethyltetradecanoate, MINCH and 2,2’,4,4’,5,5’-Hexachlorobiphenyl (PCB153) exposure to mouse models of obesity on fat distribution and AT function. In addition, in vitro studies on adipocyte cell models will be performed to investigate the molecular mechanisms how xenobiotics may directly alter adipocyte function.

• DFG Programme: Collaborative Research Centres
• Subproject of: SFB 1052: Obesity Mechanisms
• Applicant Institution: Universität Leipzig
• Project Heads: Professor Dr. Martin von Bergen; Professor Dr. Matthias Blüher, Ph.D.