11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase types 1 and 2 activity in subcutaneous adipose tissue in humans: implications in obesity and diabetes.

Context: The role of 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase types 1 (11β-HSD-1) and 2 (11β-HSD-2) enzymes in sc adipose tissue is controversial.

Objective: The objective of the study was to determine the activity of 11β-HSD-1 and -2 enzymes in the abdominal and leg sc adipose tissue in obesity and diabetes.

Design: 11β-HSD-1 and -2 enzyme activities in abdominal and leg sc adipose tissue were measured by infusing [2,2,4,6,6,12,12-(2)H7] cortisone (D7 cortisone) and [9,12,12-(2)H3] cortisol (D3 cortisol) via microdialysis catheters placed in sc fat depots.