A recent investigation conducted in the United States revealed an unprecedented biological process, capable of explaining the increase in abdominal circumference in older individuals. Research points to the existence of a particular type of stem cell, responsible for stimulating the creation of new fat cells, predominantly in the abdominal area.
Detailed in an article in Science magazine, the finding brings new insights into the bodily changes that accompany the aging process. The results indicate that, in addition to the growth of fat cells already present, the accelerated formation of new cells may be the cause of obesity specifically in the abdominal region.
Understand the cellular mechanism that drives the increase in fat in the abdominal region
Experts from City of Hope National Medical Center and UCLA dedicated themselves to studying the mechanisms within white adipose tissue, which acts in energy storage. The focus of the investigation was on adipocyte progenitor cells, considered the “precursors” of fat cells.
With advancing age, it was identified that part of these cells convert into a group recently classified as CP-A. The high capacity that these cells have to generate new fat cells is notable, with a greater concentration in the abdominal area.
The impact of aging on fat cells surprises the scientific community
The researchers found that this phenomenon may be linked to the activity of the LIFR receptor, which is essential for cellular communication. The activity of this receptor possibly stimulates the formation of new fat cells in older organisms.
Tests conducted on rats demonstrated the ease with which CP-A cells convert into adipocytes. Analogous structures have also been identified in humans, revealing a higher presence in middle-aged people compared to younger individuals.
Understand how biological factors drive abdominal obesity, in addition to lifestyle
This revelation offers a new explanation for the gain in waist measurements over the years, even without significant changes in total weight. The phenomenon transcends the influence of diet or physical exercise, highlighting changes that occur at the cellular level.
Visceral fat, which is located deep in the abdominal region, is notoriously more harmful, as it increases the risk of conditions such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease and metabolic disorders. In-depth understanding of the function of CP-A cells not only details a fundamental mechanism of aging, but also opens promising perspectives for the development of innovative treatments, aiming to limit or remove these cells from adipose tissue, positively impacting public health.
