British Endocrine Societies Joint Meeting 2004
Brighton, UK
22 March 2004 - 24 March 2004
British Endocrine Societies
Adipose tissue as an endocrine organ
Deaconess Medical Centre, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
Biographical DetailsThe biological role of adipose tissue has been evolving over recent years. Initially viewed predominantly as a site for storage of excess energy, to be released when needed under the regulation of endocrine and neural inputs, the adipose cell should now be viewed as well as a bone fide endocrine gland. Secreted products include major regulators of energybalance, insulin sensitivity, the vascular system, neuroendocrine function, and inflammatory pathways.
Leptin is a critical adipose-derived hormone, and several features of its action and inaction will be reviewed. The status of leptin resistance as a common aspect of obesity will be assessed, with particular attention to the role of SOCS3.
Endocrine Abstracts (2004) 7 S1