Endocrine Abstracts

Bone marrow adipose tissue represents a unique depot surrounded by hematopoietic elements and trabecular bone. It expands during aging, and is dynamic in response to hormonal, nutritional and mechanical stimuli. The skeletal response to the increase in marrow adipocyte number and/or size is a relevant consideration, particularly since bone marrow adipose tissue is enhanced in states with low bone mass or rapid bone loss. Excess or deficient nutrient intake are powerful inducer...

Over the last 15 years there has been a revolution in our understanding of how bone and the marrow communicate with other tissues and organs. It is now clear that adipose tissue, brain, the adrenal, the pancreas, and the marrow itself are targets of skeletal mediators. The means of communication are now starting to be delineated. Neural pathways including the sympathetic system and sensory nerves have been delineated. Hormonal function of skeletal peptides has also been deline...

The relationship between bone and fat has been the subject of intense investigations over the last decade. In particular the concept that adipocytes and osteoblasts arise from the same precursor has led to significant advances in our understanding the bone marrow milieu and the in vivo responsiveness of the skeleton to nutritional, genetic and environmental stimuli. PPAR-γ lies at the center of a mesenchymal network that ultimately determines the fate of marrow ste...