Cell biology international
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The number of adipocytes is relevant to the extent of differentiation from pluripotent stem cells into pre-adipocytes, whereas the size of adipocytes relates to the extent of differentiation from pre-adipocytes into mature fat cells and the accumulation of triglyceride. Investigation of the molecular regulatory mechanism of adipocyte differentiation is not only essential for understanding the physiological processes of adipogenesis, but it is also important for identifying new biomarkers and therapeutic targets for some metabolic diseases, such as obesity and diabetes. microRNAs (miRNAs) appear to play important roles in adipocyte differentiation. ⋯ In this review, the biological characteristics of miRNA and the adipocyte differentiation process are concisely discussed. Recent advances in our understanding of the role of miRNAs in adipocytes development or adipogenesis are discussed.