Fat tissue
Fat Tissue
Fat tissue, also known as adipose tissue, is a type of connective tissue composed primarily of adipocytes. Its main role is to store energy in the form of fat, although it also cushions and insulates the body.
Pronunciation
Fat Tissue: /fæt ˈtɪʃuː/
Etymology
The term "fat" comes from the Old English fǣtt, which means "fatted, fat, plump", while "tissue" comes from the French tissu, meaning "a weave, cloth, web".
Function
Fat tissue is primarily involved in storing energy as fat, but it also serves other important functions. It provides thermal insulation, cushions against shocks, and is an important endocrine organ.
Types of Fat Tissue
There are two types of fat tissue: white adipose tissue (WAT) and brown adipose tissue (BAT).
White Adipose Tissue
White adipose tissue stores energy and releases it as needed by the body. It also produces and releases hormones that control metabolism.
Brown Adipose Tissue
Brown adipose tissue is involved in heat production. It is named for its color, which is due to the high number of mitochondria it contains.
Related Terms
- Adipocyte: The cell that primarily composes adipose tissue.
- Lipid: A type of organic molecule that includes fats.
- Metabolism: The set of life-sustaining chemical reactions in organisms.
- Endocrine system: The collection of glands that produce hormones to regulate various bodily functions.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Fat tissue
- Wikipedia's article - Fat tissue
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