Abstract

Obesity-linked type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a growing global health challenge characterized by insulin resistance, 
chronic low-grade inflammation, and metabolic dysregulation, largely driven by the expansion and dysfunction 
of white adipose tissue (WAT). In obesity, WAT undergoes hypertrophy and dysfunction, contributing to 
impaired insulin signaling, elevated free fatty acids, and systemic inflammation. One promising therapeutic 
approach to combat these metabolic abnormalities is the browning of white adipocytes, a process wherein white 
adipose tissue adopts characteristics of brown adipose tissue, including increased mitochondrial content and 
thermogenic capacity. Browning enhances energy expenditure and improves systemic glucose homeostasis. 
Nanotechnology, with its capacity for targeted and controlled delivery of bioactive molecules, offers unique 
opportunities to induce browning of WAT. By utilizing smart nanocarriers capable of delivering thermogenic 
inducers, anti-inflammatory agents, or gene regulators directly to adipocytes, this approach may provide a new 
avenue for treating obesity-associated insulin resistance and T2D. This review explores the current state of 
nanotechnology-driven browning strategies, discusses their mechanisms of action, and considers their potential 
as a transformative therapeutic modality for obesity-linked T2D.