Lifestyle-induced Weight Loss Improves Adipogenic Potential Of Preadipocytes In Females With Different Onsets Of Obesity

Preadipocytes, as an important fraction of adipose tissue, have the potential to differentiate into mature adipocytes that store excess calories in the form of lipids. It is known that the adipogenic potential of preadipocytes is impaired in humans with obesity. However, whether the extent of this impairment differs in individuals with different onsets of obesity and whether it is reversible by weight loss remains unknown. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to investigate the adipogenic potential of human preadipocytes from females with childhood-onset obesity (Child-O) and adulthood-onset obesity (Adult-O) and to examine how weight loss through lifestyle intervention alters the adipogenesis of preadipocytes. METHODS: Females (30.9±1.1 years) with Child-O (n=10) and Adult-O (n=10) were recruited to participate in a lifestyle weight loss program involving exercise and diet modification. Femoral adipose tissues were collected before and after the weight loss program. Preadipocytes were isolated, cultured, and differentiated into mature adipocytes. BODIPY staining and Oil Red O staining were used to visualize and quantify lipid accumulation in adipocytes. RESULTS: The BODIPY integrated density was 41% higher in the Child-O group compared to the Adult-O group. Similarly, the Oil Red O absorbance at 492 nm was 33% higher in the Child-O group. Weight loss increased the BODIPY integrated density by 18% and 55% in the Child-O and Adult-O groups, respectively. Additionally, weight loss increased the Oil Red O absorbance by 32% and 68% in the Child-O and Adult-O groups, respectively. CONCLUSION: Femoral preadipocytes from individuals with Child-O have higher adipogenic potential. Furthermore, a 10% weight loss significantly improved the adipogenic potential of preadipocytes from both the Child-O and Adult-O groups. This lifestyle-induced adipogenesis could potentially accommodate any excess energy intake and prevent ectopic lipid deposition in the liver, skeletal muscle, and dysfunctional enlarged adipocytes. Hong Kong Baptist University Staff Development Grants