Thermogenesis

Thermogenesis is the physiological process by which organisms produce heat through metabolic activity. It is broadly categorised into obligatory thermogenesis (basal metabolic heat from essential cellular processes), exercise-associated thermogenesis, non-exercise activity thermogenesis (NEAT), and diet-induced thermogenesis (the thermic effect of food). A particularly active area of research involves brown adipose tissue (BAT) and beige adipocyte thermogenesis, which dissipate chemical energy as heat through the mitochondrial uncoupling protein UCP1. Cold exposure, certain nutrients, and pharmacological agents can activate BAT and promote browning of white adipose tissue. In peptide research, compounds that modulate metabolic rate and energy homeostasis are of interest for their thermogenic potential. GLP-1 receptor agonists and dual GIP/GLP-1 agonists like tirzepatide influence energy expenditure through central and peripheral mechanisms, while growth hormone secretagogues may enhance thermogenesis indirectly by promoting lean mass and elevating basal metabolic rate.