Researchers Identify New Subtypes of Fat Cells in the Human Body

Jerusalem: In an international study, researchers have identified previously unknown subpopulations of fat cells in the human body, a discovery that could revolutionize personalized medicine for obesity. The research, conducted by scientists at Israel's Ben Gurion University (BGU) as part of the Human Cell Atlas project, was published in Nature Genetics, Xinhua news agency reported.

By mapping fat cell populations in different types of human fat tissue—specifically subcutaneous and visceral fat—the researchers uncovered distinct fat cell subtypes with specialized functions. Utilizing advanced RNA mapping technologies, they assigned unique "barcodes" to RNA molecules from individual cells, allowing them to differentiate between various fat cell types.

The study revealed several previously uncharacterized fat cell subtypes, some involved in regulating inflammation, blood vessel formation, extracellular protein deposition, and fibrosis. Notably, one newly identified fat cell type was found exclusively in intra-abdominal fat tissue, an area closely linked to metabolic disorders.

Over the past three decades, scientific understanding of fat tissue has expanded beyond its role as an energy storage site. Fat cells are now recognized for their role in producing proteins that regulate appetite, metabolism, and energy balance. One such protein, leptin, influences brain centers responsible for appetite control.

Although subcutaneous and visceral fat cells shared similarities, the study highlighted subtle yet significant differences in their interactions. Visceral fat cells were more engaged in pro-inflammatory processes and frequently communicated with immune cells, whereas subcutaneous fat cells were primarily involved in anti-inflammatory responses.

Crucially, the researchers found that the proportion of these unique fat cell subtypes correlated with metabolic complications associated with obesity. The prevalence of certain fat cells increased in individuals with severe insulin resistance, suggesting a potential role in obesity-related health risks.

These findings hold promising implications for the development of personalized obesity treatments. If specific fat cell subtypes can predict an individual’s risk of metabolic complications or response to treatments, this research could lead to more targeted and effective interventions for obesity-related disorders.