BBSome: An essential component of hypothalamic regulation of energy homeostasis.

The BBSome is a protein complex composed of eight Bardet-Biedl syndrome (BBS) proteins. Although the BBSome is best known for its role in regulating cilia function, accumulating evidence indicates that this protein complex is also involved in various cellular processes, including mitochondrial dynamics and receptor trafficking to the plasma membrane. BBSome deficiency is associated with a range of diseases, including obesity and type 2 diabetes. Research into the mechanisms underlying metabolic disorders caused by BBSome deficiency has uncovered novel pathways of metabolic regulation, particularly within the hypothalamus. In this review, we discuss recent advances in understanding the role of the hypothalamic BBSome in the control of energy and glucose homeostasis and explore the underlying mechanisms.