Review	Horm Metab Res 2002; 34: 737-745 DOI: 10.1055/s-2002-38265
© Georg Thieme Verlag Stuttgart · New York
Adipose Tissue Intracrinology: Potential Importance of Local Androgen/Estrogen Metabolism in the Regulation of Adiposity
C.  Bélanger 1, V.  Luu-The 1, P.  Dupont 2, A.  Tchernof 1, 3
1 Molecular Endocrinology and Oncology Research Center 2 Gynecology Unit 3 Department of Food Sciences and Nutrition, Laval University Hospital Research Center (CHUL Research Center) and Laval University, Quebec, Canada

Abstract

The present article summarizes some of the studies available on steroid hormone conversion through the specific expression of steroidogenic enzymes in adipose tissue (adipose tissue intracrinology) and discusses the potential impact of local adipose tissue steroid metabolism on the regulation of adipocyte function and other metabolic parameters. Several studies have demonstrated significant steroid hormone uptake and conversion by adipose tissues from various body sites and in various cell fractions. Activities and/or mRNAs of aromatase, 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (HSD), 3α-HSD, 11β-HSD, 17β-HSD, 7α-hydroxylase, 17α-hydroxylase, 5α-reductase and UDP-glucuronosyltransferase 2B15 have been detected in adipose tissue or adipose cells. These studies have demonstrated potentially important roles for these enzymes in obesity, central fat accumulation, and the metabolic syndrome. Future studies on adipose tissue intracrinology will contribute further to our understanding of steroid action in adipocytes.

Key words

Androgens - Estrogens - Adipose Tissue - Body Fat Distribution - Steroidogenic Enzymes