Short summary

In this case controlled study we aim to to understand the role of bone marrow fat in the regulation of glucose homeostasis and whole body metabolism. We will recruit healthy men and subdivied based on their body mass index (BMI) to group of lean, overweight and obese subjects (n=20 per group).

We will study the cellular and molecular phenotypes of bone marrow adipose tissue (BMAT) in lean healthy compared to obese healthy and obese insulin resistant men. Also we will investigate the differentiation capacity of bone marrow skeletal stem cells (BMSC) in lean healthy, obese healthy and obese insulin resistant men to differentiate into adipocytes. 

The data collected from this study will be clinical and biochemical analyses for characterization of metabolic and bone phenotype. Further we will collect molecular data from RNA sequencing of BMSC.

Rationale

Obesity with increased worldwide prevalence represents a significant risk factor for insulin resistance, Type 2 Diabetes (T2D) and other metabolic diseases. It is characterized by dysfunction of adipose tissue, elevated inflammatory condition and ectopic accumulation of lipids into non-fat tissues such as liver and skeletal muscle. Recent studies have shown that obesity is associated with enhanced adipocyte formation in the bone marrow (BM), leading to osteoporosis and bone fractures in obese patients. This suggests that bone marrow adipose tissue (BMAT) may serve as a new storage depot for excessive calories and participate in the regulation of whole body metabolism. However, little is known on its function in different patho-physiological conditions. Thus, our overall aim is to understand the role of BMAT in the regulation of glucose homeostasis and whole body metabolism.

Description of the cohort

Healthy men, subdivided in 3 groups based on body mass index (BMI)- lean, overweight and obese 

Data and biological material

Clinical examination: anthropometric and biochemical parameters, bone phenotype; blood, adipose-tissue derived stem cells; bone-marrow skeletal stem cells

Collaborating researchers and departments

Department of Molecular Endocrinology, Steno Diabetes Center Odense, Odense University Hospital

• Professor Kurt Højlund, MD, PhD
• Associate Professor Morten Frost, MD, PhD