Benefits of healthy adipose tissue in the treatment of diabetes

Core Tip

Core tip: Diabetes mellitus is characterized by perturbation of glucose homeostasis due to insulin deficiency, either absolute or relative. Traditional treatments over the past century have focused on insulin replacement and/or enhancing insulin sensitivity. Ultimate goal in treating diabetes is to re-establish glucose regulation. Recent studies increasingly show the ability of extra-pancreatic hormones, particularly of adipose tissue origin, to compensate for insulin. Adipose tissue is a versatile endocrine organ which, under appropriate circumstances, can exert numerous metabolic benefits and may maintain glucose regulation entirely independent of endocrine pancreas. This review discusses such alternative therapies based on beneficial effects of healthy adipose tissue.