Why VIP Matters for Adipose Tissue in Cold Weather

Adipose tissue is a dynamic organ crucial for survival roles like immune responses and thermogenesis. New studies reveal it has a complex anatomy and physiology. Vasoactive intestinal peptide, known as VIP, and its receptors (VPAC1 and VPAC2) play significant roles in various bodily functions. However, their role in adipose tissue isn't well-studied. We explored VIP and its receptors in white and brown adipose tissue of normal and cold-stressed rats.Under normal conditions, both WAT and BAT showed VIP and VPAC1 gene expression, but VPAC2 was absent. Cold exposure ramped up VIP gene expression in both. But, the response of VIP receptors varied. VPAC2 gene expression increased in WAT and BAT, while VPAC1 remained unchanged in BAT and slightly decreased in WAT. Protein levels of VIP and its receptors also increased after cold exposure. These findings suggest VIP and its receptors significantly alter gene and protein levels in adipose tissue during cold stress. This could impact how white and brown adipocytes function, potentially offering new paths for treating metabolic disorders.