Adipocytes: Hidden forces of the immune system?

Adipocytes function as active immune cells, recognizing pathogens and producing antimicrobial peptides, thus playing a crucial role in host defense.

• Why it matters: Understanding adipocytes' immune functions fills a critical knowledge gap about their contribution beyond energy regulation, highlighting their potential impact on infection resistance and immune regulation.
• What they did: The authors review recent evidence from studies showing adipocytes' abilities in pathogen recognition, antimicrobial production, metabolic adaptation, and antigen presentation, emphasizing their strategic location near entry portals.
• The result: This insight redefines adipocytes as integral immune components, suggesting they actively support barrier integrity and immune responses, which could influence future therapeutic strategies for infections and immune-related conditions.