Adipocyte secreted NRG4 ameliorates age-associated metabolic dysfunction

With intensified aging of the society, the increased age-associated diseases that threatens the quality of life for the elderly. Adipose tissue, a vital energy reservoir with endocrine functions, is one of the most vulnerable tissues in aging, which in turn influence systematic aging process, including metabolic dysfunction. However, the underlying mechanism are still poorly understood. In this study, we found that NRG4, a novel adipokine, is obviously decreased in adipocyte tissues and serums during aging. Moreover, delivered recombinant NRG4 protein (rNRG4) into aged mice can ameliorate age-associated insulin resistance, glucose disorders and other metabolic disfunction. In addition, rNRG4 treatment improves age-associated hepatic steatosis and sarcopenia, accompanied with altered gene signatures. Together, these results indicate that NRG4 plays a key role in the aging process and is a therapeutic target for the treatment of age-associated metabolic dysfunction.