Recent Developments in Obesity: Metabolism, Pathophysiology, and Treatment
A special issue of International Journal of Molecular Sciences (ISSN 1422-0067). This special issue belongs to the section "Molecular Endocrinology and Metabolism".
Deadline for manuscript submissions: 20 November 2025 | Viewed by 119
Special Issue Editor
Interests: metabolic diseases; insulin resistance; obesity; diabetes; glucose metabolism; lipid metabolism; aging; sarcopenia; cardiac, muscle and liver energy metabolism; mitochondria
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Special Issue Information
Dear Colleagues,
Recent progress in obesity research has facilitated a more profound comprehension of its intricate pathophysiology, thereby paving the way for the advent of novel therapeutic modalities. Hormonal mechanisms, particularly those involving gut-derived peptides such as GLP-1, GIP, and glucagon, play a pivotal role in regulating appetite and metabolism. These hormones, in conjunction with inflammatory pathways in adipose tissue, contribute to the development of obesity-related complications, including insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome. The advent of new pharmacotherapies has brought about the introduction of promising agents, including GLP-1 receptor agonists (such as semaglutide) and newer dual or triple agonists (such as tirzepatide and retatrutide), which target multiple pathways for comprehensive metabolic benefits. These medications assist in reducing appetite, enhancing satiety, and improving glycemic control. Surgical interventions, such as gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy, remain highly effective for severe obesity and comorbidity resolution; however, they entail considerable costs and potential complications.
Concurrently, lifestyle modifications emphasizing dietary changes, increased physical activity, and behavioral adjustments are essential; yet, they frequently necessitate the assistance of pharmacotherapy or surgical intervention to achieve long-term efficacy. Research is progressing towards the development of personalized treatment approaches, which integrate genetic, metabolic, and lifestyle factors to enable the tailoring of interventions. Future strategies will also include an investigation of the long-term safety and efficacy of new therapies, as well as an analysis of the challenges to accessibility, with the aim of facilitating broader adoption. These developments collectively indicate a multifaceted approach to the management of obesity as a chronic, systemic condition with far-reaching health implications.
Dr. Byungyong Ahn
Guest Editor
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Keywords
- obesity
- pathophysiology
- hormones (GLP-1, GIP, glucagon)
- inflammation
- pharmacotherapy
- incretin-based treatments
- bariatric surgery
- lifestyle interventions
- personalized medicine
- metabolic syndrome
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