New Insights and Potential Therapeutic Interventions in Metabolic Diseases

Abstract

Endocrine homeostasis and metabolic diseases have been the subject of extensive research in recent years. The development of new techniques and insights has led to a deeper understanding of the mechanisms underlying these conditions and opened up new avenues for diagnosis and treatment. In this review, we discussed the rise of metabolic diseases, especially in Western countries, the genetical, psychological, and behavioral basis of metabolic diseases, the role of nutrition and physical activity in the development of metabolic diseases, the role of single-cell transcriptomics, gut microbiota, epigenetics, advanced imaging techniques, and cell-based therapies in metabolic diseases. Finally, practical applications derived from this information are made.

Keywords: advanced imaging techniques; cell-based therapies; epigenetics; genetic; gut; microbiota; nutrition; physical activity; psychology; single-cell transcriptomics.

Figure 1

Representation of genetic mutations and their metabolic impairments.

Figure 2

Graphic representation of genetic and epigenetic factors and their effects on metabolism. X codification.

Figure 3

Description of the different improvements that can be achieved through movement and exercise in the different markers of metabolic diseases. Aerobic exercise, strength training, and combined exercise along with HIIT are the most successful approaches. Up arrow-increase; down arrow-decrease.

Figure 4

Description of the types of diet that can cause inflammatory processes including animal fats, chocolates, ultra-processed and sugary products. Vegetables, fruits, nuts, pre- and probiotics and cereals are shown as foods that can curb or prevent inflammation and thus the development of metabolic diseases.