biostudies-literatureShamsi FNIDDK NIH HHS726-744https://www.ebi.ac.uk/biostudies/studies/S-EPMC8814904biostudies-literatureUnknown17(12)The worldwide incidence of obesity and its sequelae, such as type 2 diabetes mellitus, have reached pandemic levels. Central to the development of these metabolic disorders is adipose tissue. White adipose tissue stores excess energy, whereas brown adipose tissue (BAT) and beige (also known as brite) adipose tissue dissipate energy to generate heat in a process known as thermogenesis. Strategies that activate and expand BAT and beige adipose tissue increase energy expenditure in animal models and offer therapeutic promise to treat obesity. A better understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying the development of BAT and beige adipose tissue and the activation of thermogenic function is the key to creating practical therapeutic interventions for obesity and metabolic disorders. In thNature reviews. EndocrinologyThe evolving view of thermogenic adipocytes - ontogeny, niche and function.PMC8814904R01 DK077097K01 DK125608P30 DK036836R01 DK102898R01 DK122808Wang CHTseng YHShamsi FfalseThe evolving view of thermogenic adipocytes - ontogeny, niche and function.The worldwide incidence of obesity and its sequelae, such as type 2 diabetes mellitus, have reached pandemic levels. Central to the development of these metabolic disorders is adipose tissue. White adipose tissue stores excess energy, whereas brown adipose tissue (BAT) and beige (also known as brite) adipose tissue dissipate energy to generate heat in a process known as thermogenesis. Strategies that activate and expand BAT and beige adipose tissue increase energy expenditure in animal models and offer therapeutic promise to treat obesity. A better understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying the development of BAT and beige adipose tissue and the activation of thermogenic function is the key to creating practical therapeutic interventions for obesity and metabolic disorders. In th2021-01-01T00:00:00Z2021 Dec2025-04-04T07:51:08.141Z2025-04-04T07:51:08.141ZS-EPMC88149043462573710.1038/s41574-021-00562-6