Prevention by Heat Stimulation of Metabolic Syndrome Progression Based upon the Underlying Molecular Mechanism

Metabolic syndrome (MS) is a pathological condition that causes high blood pressure, abnormal glucose metabolism, and lipid metabolism based on visceral fat accumulation. Insulin resistance and atherosclerosis caused by chronic inflammation of visceral adipose tissue are fundamental pathologies of lifestyle-related diseases. It is well known that diet and exercise are important in preventing these diseases. However, exercise is limited in people with various locomotive disorders. In recent years, the use of heat therapy to treat insulin resistance has attracted attention. Many researchers are interested in strengthening the skeletal muscle functions as a metabolic organ. We are verifying the thermal effect of skeletal muscles on underlying mechanism of MS progression such as chronic inflammation, cell death and heat shock protein 70 family (HSP70). This chapter reviews recent reports on whether hyperthermia may safely contribute to the prevention of MS and its progression to type 2 diabetes and atherosclerosis. It was thought that the chaperone function of HSP70 could be used to influence inflammatory cytokines and contribute to the prevention of insulin resistance and atherosclerosis. Thermal effects may be useful, especially when physical activity is limited. Safe and effective interventions to prevent MS and its progression require further research.