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Aging’s Secret: The Rise of Fat-Producing Stem Cells
As we age, maintaining a slim waistline becomes increasingly challenging. Recent studies reveal that this isn’t solely due to lifestyle choices. Researchers from City of Hope and UCLA have identified a biological mechanism that accelerates fat accumulation in the abdominal area during middle age. Dailyscitech
The Discovery: CP-A Cells and the LIFR Pathway
The study highlights the emergence of a new type of stem cell, termed committed preadipocytes, age-specific (CP-As). These cells become more active with age, leading to increased fat cell production, particularly in the belly region. The activation of CP-As is regulated by the leukemia inhibitory factor receptor (LIFR) pathway. Dailyscitech
Implications for Health and Potential Treatments
The accumulation of belly fat is not just a cosmetic concern; it’s linked to higher risks of metabolic diseases such as type 2 diabetes and heart disease. Understanding the role of CP-A cells and the LIFR pathway opens avenues for developing targeted therapies to mitigate age-related fat gain. Dailyscitech
Looking Ahead: Combating Age-Related Belly Fat
This groundbreaking research offers hope for new strategies to address midlife weight gain. By focusing on the biological factors that contribute to fat accumulation, future treatments may help individuals maintain healthier body compositions as they age. Dailyscitech
Reference: “Distinct adipose progenitor cells emerging with age drive active adipogenesis” by Guan Wang, Gaoyan Li, Anying Song, Yutian Zhao, Jiayu Yu, Yifan Wang, Wenting Dai, Martha Salas, Hanjun Qin, Leonard Medrano, Joan Dow, Aimin Li, Brian Armstrong, Patrick T. Fueger, Hua Yu, Yi Zhu, Mengle Shao, Xiwei Wu, Lei Jiang, Judith Campisi, Xia Yang and Qiong A. Wang, 25 April 2025, Science.
DOI: 10.1126/science.adj0430
