Combined pharmacological targeting of CD9⁺ progenitors alleviates obesity-induced adipose tissue fibrosis and metabolic impairment.

ABSTRACT: Fibrosis in visceral white adipose tissue (vWAT) is closely associated with tissue dysfunction and systemic metabolic disturbances in obesity. Identifying pathways amenable to drug intervention to prevent fibrotic changes in vWAT is a critical step in addressing the array of metabolic complications associated with obesity. CD9⁺ adipose progenitors (Progs) are key drivers of vWAT fibrosis. Here, we explore pharmacological strategies to target these cells and improve metabolic health. Profiling of CD9⁺ Progs reveals pro-fibrotic pathways that can be targeted by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved drugs nintedanib and celecoxib. Treatment with this combination blocks the progression of vWAT fibrosis and improves systemic metabolism in obese mice. Within the C

SUBMITTER: Rebiere C 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12281401 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature