Why do some obese people stay healthy? 🍔

Why do some obese people remain metabolically healthy? A recent study reveals key cellular differences in adipose tissue that could explain this phenomenon.

Researchers have mapped the genetic activity in the adipose tissue of obese individuals, discovering cellular variations between those with and without metabolic diseases. This detailed mapping could identify biomarkers and guide new treatments for conditions like diabetes and hypertension.


The study, conducted by scientists from Zurich and Leipzig, relies on the Leipzig Obesity Biobank. It compares subcutaneous and visceral adipose tissue samples from 70 volunteers, revealing significant differences in genetic activity and cellular composition.

The adipocytes of metabolically unhealthy individuals show a reduced ability to burn fat and produce more immunological molecules. These changes could trigger an immune response promoting metabolic diseases.

A surprising discovery concerns mesothelial cells, which are more numerous and flexible in healthy obese individuals. These cells can transform into different cell types, potentially facilitating tissue expansion.

The study also reveals differences between men and women, with a type of precursor cell present only in the visceral adipose tissue of women. This could explain disparities in the development of metabolic diseases by sex.

The researchers have published their data in a publicly accessible web application, providing a basis for future research. They hope to identify biomarkers to improve the treatment of metabolic diseases.

Finally, this study paves the way for personalized treatments by identifying patients who would benefit most from new classes of drugs, such as those that suppress appetite and promote insulin release.

What is visceral adipose tissue?

Visceral adipose tissue is located deep within the abdominal cavity, surrounding internal organs. Unlike subcutaneous adipose tissue, it is considered more problematic for metabolic health.

This type of fat is associated with an increased risk of developing diseases like type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. It plays a key role in regulating metabolism and the production of inflammatory molecules.

Recent studies show that visceral adipose tissue undergoes significant functional changes in obese individuals with metabolic diseases. These changes affect almost all cell types in this tissue.

Understanding the mechanisms behind these changes could open the way to new therapeutic strategies to prevent or treat metabolic diseases.

How do mesothelial cells influence metabolic health?

Mesothelial cells, found only in visceral adipose tissue, play a crucial role in metabolic health. They mark the outer boundary of this tissue and show functional flexibility in healthy obese individuals.

These cells can transform into different cell types, including adipocytes. This ability is generally associated with stem cells and is rarely observed in adult tissues.

The flexibility of mesothelial cells could facilitate the healthy expansion of visceral adipose tissue without triggering a harmful immune response. This could explain why some obese individuals remain metabolically healthy.

Research on these cells offers new perspectives for understanding and treating obesity-related metabolic diseases.