Figure 3. WAT browning mediated metabolic dysfunction.
During WAT browning, substantial metabolic alterations take place in patients with hypermetabolic conditions (burns, cancer, and heart disease). Left WAT browning enhances whole body energy expenditure causing a catabolic state of muscle protein breakdown and increased lipolysis, ultimately leading to cachexia; a debilitating condition characterized by muscle and adipose wasting. Middle: WAT browning activates lipolysis and increases serum cholesterol levels, ultimately leading to atherosclerosis; a condition characterized by plaque growth and instability in the heart. Right: WAT browning stimulates lipolysis and FFA efflux ultimately leading to hepatic steatosis; a condition characterized by ectopic fat accumulation and liver failure. Full arrows indicate well-substantiated findings; whereas dashed arrows indicate less characterized findings.