As we age, our bodies change, including how our adipose tissue functions. Scientists discovered that an enzyme, Pck1, plays an important role in keeping fat cells healthy. This enzyme helps cells stay busy with their metabolism, the process by which they make energy and maintain themselves.
As both humans and mice age, the amounts of Pck1 in fat cells decrease. The consequence is that these fat cells age more rapidly and function less well. Aged fat cells release harmful substances that stimulate inflammation and can damage the surrounding tissue. Reduced Pck1 activity therefore leads to more inflammation and increases the risk of conditions such as insulin resistance.
The researchers showed that mice lacking this enzyme in their fat suffered significantly more from these ageing effects, especially on a high-fat diet. Their fat cells showed more damage to the energy-producing parts, the mitochondria, and more signs of inflammation developed. In addition, substances accumulate that cause the cells to age even faster.
Although the exact decrease of the enzyme is not yet fully explained, this discovery opens up new routes for potential treatments. By keeping the enzyme active or stimulating it, the ageing process in fat could potentially be slowed down, which could be beneficial for our health in later life.
For those who want to age healthily, it is important to know that the functioning of adipose tissue plays a key role in preventing chronic inflammation and metabolic complaints.
Source: Josh Conway
