Immunometabolism in obesity: Understanding the beneficial and detrimental roles of inflammation
Abstract
In obesity, nutrient excess and altered adipocyte secretory profiles reprogram cell-intrinsic metabolism, leading to the activation of immune cells within metabolically active tissues such as adipose tissue. This obesity-associated chronic low-grade metabolic inflammation (often referred to as metaflammation) is a well-established driver of insulin resistance and metabolic dysfunction. However, several lines of emerging evidence suggest that metaflammation is not merely a pathologic process, but may also serve as an adaptive response that supports metabolic homeostasis, particularly at the early stages of obesity. This Essay discusses immunometabolic mechanisms underlying the dual nature of metaflammation in obesity, highlighting how its initially beneficial effects can transition into detrimental outcomes.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Adipokines
Inflammation
and Metabolic Diseases
Regulation of Appetite and Obesity
Diet
Metabolism
and Disease
Publication details
- Journal / source
- PLoS Biology
- Publisher
- Public Library of Science (PLoS)
- Volume
- 24
- Issue
- 1
- Pages
- e3003620–e3003620
- Publication date
- 21 January 2026
- Language
- EN