Adiposopathy: The Role of “Sick Fat” in Cardiovascular Diseases and Exercise Mediated Improvement in Adipose Tissue Function

Abstract

Background and aims: Positive calorie balance disrupts the function of visceral adipose tissue including cardiac and perivascular adipose tissue. Excess fat in visceral adipocytes impairs endocrine as well as immune response. The inflammatory and hormonal factors released from adipose tissue play a central role in inter-organ cross-talk. This review considers the current evidence on the role of Adiposopathy on cardiovascular disease and the importance of physical activity in restoring the function of adipocytes. Methods: Literature searches were conducted with keywords (e.g., Adiposopathy, cardiovascular disease, Exercise) using PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, Science Direct, Google Scholar and DOAJ. All article types were included in the search. Results: The pathological mechanisms associated with up-regulated proinflammatory and down-regulated anti-inflammatory cytokines are responsible for the disturbed communication among muscle, liver and vasculature. In other words, Adiposopathy promote cardiovascular risk factors such as atherosclerosis, hypertension, insulin resistance, dyslipidaemia and prothrombotic state which in turn, directly and indirectly, promotes cardiovascular disease. Conclusion: of adipose tissue for the prevention and management strategies for improving cardiovascular health are suggested. a) Excess fat deposition in adipose tissue derange the internal milieu of the proinflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines. b) This altered milieu disturbs the normal functioning of adipocytes and interfere in the crosstalk among liver muscle and vasculature. c) The changes brought by these cytokines have profound effect on potentiating cardiovascular risk factors (CVD). d) Exercise promotes fat mobilization from adipocytes as well as rebrowning of white adipose tissue and improves CVD risk factors.