UCP1 and systemic lupus erythematosus: We report for the first time that thoracic aortic PVAT of lupus mice exhibits: (1) dysfunctional features, as evidenced by “whitening” and hypertrophy of perivascular adipocytes, and immune cell infiltration; (2) reduced expression of adipogenic and beige adipocyte genes, including adiponectin, PPARγ, and UCP1; and (3) increased expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines.