[Alterations in hypothalamus-adipose tissue axis in relation with the risk of coronary atherosclerosis].

Recent population studies in Southern Argentina have found a sharp rise in prevalence of overweight and obesity in both sexes and specially after fifty years of age. Hence, the obesity in itself was found associated with the presence of metabolic syndrome (MS) and coronary heart disease, which have been demonstrated by angiography studies. The regulation of energy homeostasis is controlled by interactions between the central nervous system (neurotransmitters and neuropeptides) and the peripheric system (hormones) through very complex mechanisms. Genetics or acquired alterations in these regulation systems can be the origin of obesity and specially of central obesity. The visceral adipose tissue can be considered a secretor organ and its mass increment could generate insulin-resistance (IR) state, which directly or indirectly, could develop into endothelial dysfunction and coronary atherosclerosis. Although some studies estimate that 40% of IR are of genetic origin, a high proportion of these are acquired by inadequate habits in life style (specially excess of food intake and low physical activity). Finally, a better knowledge of the central and peripheric regulations in alimentation habits and energetic balance could help to develop treatments to decrease the incidence of these metabolic alterations and, consequently the morbidity and mortality due to coronary atherosclerosis.