Understanding the effects of Drosophila cardiac cell-specific downregulation of ’kohtalo’(kto) and ‘skuld’(skd) on fat cells

Abstract

One of the fascinating areas of biology that intrigues many is the communication network between different organs critical for systemic homeostasis. Recent studies in both mammals and Drosophila, have shed light on the existence and significance of different signaling molecules and metabolites that mediate inter-organ communication, both during development and disease. Of the different axes of this network, particular importance is being given to understand the roles of different organs in regulating the structure and function of fat cells as interorgan communication plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of obesity and metabolic disorders. For instance, it has been demonstrated that the release of organokines by the liver or skeletal muscles contributes to the development of obesity. Moreover, gut micorbiota derived short chain fatty acids and secondary bile acids play a critical role in regulating obesity as they function as signaling molecules affecting host metabolism. A couple of studies have even suggested the potential role of heart and body muscles in modulating the systemic fat content . This research aims to advance our understanding of the mechanisms that facilitate systemic homeostasis through inter-organ communication networks.