Interscapular fat is associated with impaired glucose tolerance and insulin resistance independent of visceral fat mass. Issue 11 (3rd October 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Vosseler, Andreas; Machann, Jürgen; Fritsche, Louise; Prystupa, Katsiaryna; Kübler, Christian; Häring, Hans‐Ulrich; Birkenfeld, Andreas L.; Stefan, Norbert; Peter, Andreas; Fritsche, Andreas; Wagner, Robert; Heni, Martin
• Is Part Of: Obesity. Volume 30:Issue 11(2022)
• Page Start: 2233
• Page End: 2241
• Publication Date: 2022-10-03
• Subjects: Obesity -- Periodicals; 616.398005
• DOI: 10.1002/oby.23554
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1930-7381

Abstract

Abstract: Objective: Dysregulated body fat distribution is a major determinant of various diseases. In particular, increased visceral fat mass and ectopic lipids in the liver are linked to metabolic disorders such as insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. Furthermore, interscapular fat is considered to be a metabolically active fat compartment. Methods: This study measured interscapular fat mass and investigated its relationship with glucose metabolism in 822 individuals with a wide range of BMI values and different glucose tolerance statuses. Magnetic resonance imaging was used to quantify body fat depots, and an oral glucose tolerance test was performed to determine glucose metabolism. Results: Elevated interscapular fat mass was positively associated with age, BMI, and total body, visceral, and subcutaneous adipose tissue mass. High interscapular fat mass associated with elevated fasting glucose levels, glucose levels at 2 hours during the oral glucose tolerance test, glycated hemoglobin, and insulin resistance, independent of sex, age, and total body and visceral fat mass. Conclusions: In conclusion, interscapular fat might be a highly specific fat compartment with a potential impact on glucose metabolism and the pathogenesis of diabetes mellitus.