Activation Of Brown Adipose Tissue In Tropical Populations: A Systematic Literature Review

Abstract

Background: Brown Adipose Tissue (BAT) is a metabolically active tissue that contributes significantly to thermogenesis and energy expenditure. While its activation has been well-documented in cold and temperate climates, the potential for BAT-targeted interventions in tropical regions remains underexplored.

Objective: This systematic literature review aims to synthesize current evidence on BAT activation strategies that are feasible and effective in tropical environments, and to evaluate their underlying mechanisms and translational relevance for metabolic health.

Methods: A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar, adhering to PRISMA guidelines, to identify peer-reviewed studies published between 2018 and 2024. Inclusion criteria focused on studies involving BAT activation in humans or animal models, with specific relevance to non-cold stimuli or tropical adaptations. A total of 38 studies were included for qualitative synthesis.

Results: Three primary intervention categories were identified: (1) simulated cold exposure (e.g., air conditioning, cold showers), (2) dietary supplementation with bioactive compounds such as capsaicin and polyphenols from tropical foods, and (3) exercise-induced hormonal regulation, particularly irisin-mediated thermogenesis. These interventions were found to activate BAT through sympathetic stimulation, mitochondrial enhancement, and UCP1 expression. Notably, tropical-appropriate adaptations were shown to improve metabolic markers even in the absence of cold environments.

Conclusion: BAT activation presents a viable and culturally adaptable strategy to address the rising burden of metabolic disorders in tropical populations. Future studies should prioritize optimizing these interventions for scalability, sustainability, and long-term outcomes, supporting their integration into public health frameworks in warm-climate regions.