Adipocyte
Adipocyte (pronounced: ad-i-po-site) is a type of cell specialized in the storage and metabolism of fats. It is a key component of the adipose tissue, which plays a crucial role in energy storage and regulation in the body.
Etymology
The term "adipocyte" is derived from the Latin adeps meaning "fat" and the Greek -cyte meaning "cell".
Types of Adipocytes
There are two types of adipocytes: white adipocytes and brown adipocytes. White adipocytes are primarily involved in energy storage, while brown adipocytes are involved in heat production.
Function
Adipocytes store energy in the form of triglycerides. They can also secrete a variety of substances, including leptin, adiponectin, and resistin, which are involved in the regulation of appetite, insulin sensitivity, and inflammation, among other things.
Related Terms
- Adipogenesis: The process by which adipocytes are formed.
- Lipolysis: The breakdown of fats stored in adipocytes.
- Lipogenesis: The process of fat formation in adipocytes.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Adipocyte
- Wikipedia's article - Adipocyte
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