Dopamine Receptors in Human Adipocytes: Expression and Functions
Author Information
Author(s): Dana C. Borcherding, Eric R. Hugo, Gila Idelman, Anuradha De Silva, Nathan W. Richtand, Jean Loftus, Nira Ben-Jonathan
Primary Institution: Department of Cancer and Cell Biology, University of Cincinnati
Hypothesis
The study aims to examine the expression of dopamine receptors and arylsulfatase A in human adipose tissue and determine whether dopamine regulates prolactin and adipokine expression and release.
Conclusion
Human adipocytes express functional dopamine receptors and arylsulfatase A, suggesting a regulatory role for peripheral dopamine in adipose functions.
Supporting Evidence
- Dopamine receptors were variably expressed in human adipose tissue.
- Dopamine and dopamine sulfate inhibited prolactin gene expression and release.
- Dopamine suppressed leptin and stimulated adiponectin and IL-6 release in adipocytes.
- Human adipocytes express an active arylsulfatase A that can convert dopamine sulfate to bioactive dopamine.
Takeaway
Dopamine can affect how fat cells work, including how they release hormones that control weight and metabolism.
Methodology
The study used RT-PCR, Western blotting, qPCR, enzymatic assays, and ELISA to analyze dopamine receptor expression and activity in human adipose tissue.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the specific demographic of participants and the focus on a single tissue type.
Limitations
The study primarily focused on non-obese, non-diabetic women, which may limit the generalizability of the findings.
Participant Demographics
Non-obese, non-diabetic women undergoing elective abdominoplasty.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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