Obesity and inflammation in children

Sarah Jane Schwarzenberg, Alan R. Sinaiko

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

59 Scopus citations

Abstract

Systemic inflammation is present in children and adults with obesity. Inflammation associated with obesity appears to be central to the development of insulin resistance and atherosclerosis and may be important in the pathogenesis of other comorbid conditions. Although generally considered an inert energy storage tissue, white adipose tissue is a metabolically active organ. It produces a number of inflammatory cytokines and acute-phase reactants. Inflammation associated with obesity declines after weight loss and with exercise. It may also be possible to modify obesity-associated inflammation with medications, reducing comorbidities without weight loss. The study of inflammation in the context of excessive adipose tissue is central to understanding obesity and modifying its impact on patients.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)239-246
Number of pages8
JournalPaediatric Respiratory Reviews
Volume7
Issue number4
DOIs
StatePublished - Dec 2006

Keywords

  • adipokines
  • adiponectin
  • children
  • cytokines
  • inflammation
  • obesity

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