Adipose Tissue Circadian Clocks: Implications for Metabolism and Metabolic Dysfunction

Adipose tissue, beyond its role as a fat storage depot, functions as an endocrine organ, secreting signaling molecules systemically and via paracrine mechanisms (particularly in perivascular and ectopic fat). These diverse functions are crucial for regulating metabolic and cardiovascular health. The circadian clock, an internal ~24-h biological rhythm, orchestrates physiological processes to adapt to environmental cycles (e.g., light, temperature, food). This involves linking gene transcription/translation events to the external environment. Recent studies demonstrate circadian expression patterns in adipose tissue for various genes and metabolic pathways. Disrupted circadian rhythms are implicated in adipose tissue and metabolic dysfunction. Understanding adipose tissue circadian mechanisms may provide strategies to mitigate metabolic and associated cardiovascular disease risk. This review summarizes recent findings on the relationship between circadian rhythms and adipose tissue metabolism, explores how an adipose clock contributes to the pathogenesis of metabolic diseases, and discusses potential therapeutic approaches targeting the adipose tissue clock.