Metabolic and Angiogenic Consequences of the Presence or Absence of UCP1

Adaptive adrenergic thermogenesis – both the form that develops subsequent to cold acclimation and the form that develops subsequent to a palatable diet challenge – is entirely dependent on the presence and activity of the brown fat uncoupling protein, UCP1. In a cold environment, the absence of UCP1 can be compensated by alternative means, such as shivering or exercise. Upon a challenge with a palatable diet, similar alternatives are not available, and mice become obese in the absence of UCP1. The recent identification of active brown fat in adult humans raises questions as to its role in protection from obesity and in a potential therapeutic context.