Relationship between brown adipose tissue and glucose metabolism

Studies proved the presence of functional brown adipose tissue (BAT) in adults. BAT is the primary organ of nonshivering thermogenesis and diet-induced thermogenesis. The thermogenesis depends on uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1) in the mitochondrial inner membrane. UCP1 can uncouple the oxidation of fuel substrates from induction of ATP (uncoupled respiration) to decrease ATP production. It sustains the balance of body temperature and energy. The expression of UCP1 is influenced by various factors such as cold exposure, insulin, norepinephrine and thyroxine, which make BAT be activated, and then promotes glucose uptake, and accelerates the glucose clearance in the circulation. Both food and factors inducing BAT′s activation have effects on glucose uptake of BAT. Key words: Brown adipose tissue; White adipose tissue; Glucose metabolism; Uncoupling protein 1