In the present study we demonstrated that human white adipocytes express the cold-sensing receptor TRPM8 which activation by menthol and icilin induced a rise in [Ca2+]i and UCP1 expression, increased mitochondrial membrane potential, glucose uptake and heat production. The induction of 鈥渂rown-like鈥?phenotype in human white adipocytes after TRPM8 activation was supported by ultrastructural morphological changes of mitochondrial morphology and of their intracellular localization, with no modifications of the genes regulating mitochondrial biogenesis.
In conclusion human white adipocytes express the cold receptor TRPM8 which activation induces their 鈥渂rowning鈥?supporting a possible role of this receptor in the control of adipose tissue metabolism and body energy balance.