ABSTRACT White adipose tissue browning, by activating core molecules such as PRDM16 and UCP1 to regulate energy metabolism, exhibits a double‐edged sword effect in metabolic diseases and tumors, making it a current research hotspot. This paper systematically reviews its biological characteristics and regulatory networks, including multi‐pathway mechanisms mediated by hormones, transcription factors, noncoding RNAs, and metabolites. It summarizes endogenous and exogenous induction methods such as cold exposure, local hyperthermia, electroacupuncture, exercise, diet, and gut microbiota. Research indicates that GLP‐1 can serve as a therapeutic target for obesity and metabolic syndromes by enhancing thermogenesis, improving insulin resistance, and modulating inflammation. However, within the tumor microenvironment, it may either inhibit tumors through nutrient competition or accelerate cachexia progression, with specific effects varying by tumor types and stages. This paper further explores clinical translation strategies such as GLP‐1 receptor agonists and photothermal nanomaterials, analyzing technical bottlenecks, species differences, and ethical challenges. It emphasizes the need for precise timing of interventions based on the body's energy state. Future research should clarify molecular mechanisms, optimize targeting strategies, and advance its safe translation into novel therapeutic approaches for metabolic diseases and tumors.
Wang et al. (Wed,) studied this question.