According to the traditional view of metabolism, the body uses various signaling molecules, such as hormones, to regulate energy production. Adipose tissue is the body’s energy storage system, and when we need to use these reserves to provide additional fuel during high physical exertion or stress, certain signals trigger the sympathetic nervous system, which starts to “talk” to the fat cells.
Until now, it was believed that nerves penetrating adipose tissue are mainly associated with the sympathetic nervous system. But it was difficult to understand exactly what kind of neurons were in such a tissue. Therefore, to obtain the results of this study, the research team had to develop completely new imaging modalities.
Two new methods were applied in this study. One of them is called HYBRiD, which makes adipose tissue transparent and allows researchers to open a unique window into the pathway of neurons. Another method is called STEM, and it allows researchers to study exactly how certain neurons found in adipose tissue communicate with other parts of the body.
The main result of the study was the discovery of sensory neurons branching from the spine into adipose tissue. These sensory neurons communicate directly with the part of the brain called the dorsal root ganglion.
The researchers blocked communication between these sensory neurons and found increased metabolic activity in adipose tissue. When the connection between the sensory neurons was cut, the sympathetic nervous system kicked in and started converting white fat cells into brown fat. This mechanism accelerates the fat burning process in the body.
“This tells us there is more to it than a universal instruction that the brain sends to adipose tissue,” the scientists explain. “It’s much more complex: these two kinds of neurons act like an accelerator pedal and an oil-burning brake.”
Source: Ferra
