The Role of GATA3 in Adipogenesis & Insulin Resistance

Abstract

Background: Impaired adipogenesis plays an important role in the development of obesity-associated insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. Adipose tissue inflammation is a crucial mediator of this process. In hyperglycemia, immune system is activated partially through upregulation of GATA3, causing exacerbation of the inflammatory state associated with obesity. GATA3 also plays a role as a gatekeeper of terminal adipocyte differentiation. Here we are examining the impact of GATA3 inhibition in adipose tissue on restoring adipogenesis, reversing insulin resistance and potentially lowering the risk of type 2 diabetes. Results: GATA-3 expression was higher in insulin resistant obese individuals compared to their insulin sensitive counterparts. Targeting GATA-3 with GATA-3 specific inhibitors reversed impaired adipogenesis and induced changes in the expression of a number insulin signaling-related genes, including up-regulation of insulin sensitivity-related gene and down-regulation of insulin resistance-related genes. Conclusion: GATA3 expression is higher in differentiating adipocytes from obese insulin resistant. Inhibiting GATA3 improves adipocytes differentiation and rescues insulin sensitivity in insulin resistant cells.