Fig. 6.

Model of functional networks contributing to adipose tissue remodeling in human pregnancy. Transcriptional activation patterns suggest that molecular networks from several adjacent cell types cooperate with the adipose tissue remodeling during pregnancy. ECM components and angiogenic factors are needed for vascular and adipocyte growth. Lipogenic genes and transcription factors are required for cell differentiation and lipid storage. Macrophages infiltrated between the stromal cells produce proinflammatory cytokines IL-6, IL-8, and TNF, which may 1) enhance neovascularization and 2) facilitate the development of insulin resistance. ACC, acetyl-CoA carboxylase; MCP-1, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1; ACLY, ATP citrate lyase; AGPAT, acylglycerol-3-phosphate acyltransferase; MMP-14, metalloproteinase-14; COL1A2, collagen type 1 α2; PAI-1, plasminogen activator inhibitor-1; VCAM, vascular cell adhesion molecule-1, ANGPTL2, angiopoietin-like 2; FGFR2, fibroblast growth factor receptor 2.