Frequent extreme cold exposure and brown fat and cold-induced thermogenesis: a study in a monozygotic twin.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Mild cold acclimation is known to increase brown adipose tissue (BAT) activity and cold-induced thermogenesis (CIT) in humans. We here tested the effect of a lifestyle with frequent exposure to extreme cold on BAT and CIT in a Dutch man known as 'the Iceman', who has multiple world records in withstanding extreme cold challenges. Furthermore, his monozygotic twin brother who has a 'normal' sedentary lifestyle without extreme cold exposures was measured.

Methods

The Iceman (subject A) and his brother (subject B) were studied during mild cold (13°C) and thermoneutral conditions (31°C). Measurements included BAT activity and respiratory muscle activity by [18F]FDG-PET/CT imaging and energy expenditure through indirect calorimetry. In addition, body temperatures, ca

SUBMITTER: Vosselman MJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4094425 | biostudies-literature | 2014

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature