Gender and Sex Differences in Adipose Tissue

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: As the ongoing epidemic of adult and childhood obesity grows, it puts a greater burden on individuals and the healthcare system due to increased prevalence of obesity-associated diseases. An important area that has gained much attention recently is the sex and gender difference related to obesity and associated complications. Basic science and clinical studies have now improved our understanding of obesity and have discovered adipose tissue biology to be key in metabolism. RECENT FINDINGS: There is evidence related to the sex dichotomy in obesity in a variety of areas including adipocyte function, sex hormone effects, genetics, and metabolic inflammation leading to critical differences in adipose tissue biology. SUMMARY: The sex and gender difference in adipose tissue is a factor that should be considered when studying an individuals’ risk for obesity and metabolic dysfunction. This understanding is important for strategizing treatment and prevention measures.