Natural killer T cells are involved in adipose tissues inflammation and glucose intolerance in diet-induced obese mice.

Background: Macrophage and lymphocyte infiltration in adipose tissue may contribute to the pathogenesis of obesity-mediated metabolic disorders. Natural killer T (NKT) cells, which integrate proinflammatory cytokines, have been demonstrated in the atherosclerotic lesions and in visceral adipose tissue.

Objective: To determine whether NKT cells are involved in glucose intolerance and adipose tissue inflammation in diet-induced obese mice.