Lipolysis
Lipolysis
Lipolysis (/lɪˈpɒlɪsɪs/ li-POL-ih-sis) is a catabolic process leading to the breakdown of triglycerides stored in fat cells (adipocytes) into free fatty acids and glycerol.
Etymology
The term "lipolysis" is derived from the Greek words "lipos" (fat) and "lysis" (loosening).
Process
Lipolysis is initiated by hormonal signals from the body, such as insulin and glucagon. These hormones bind to receptors on the adipocyte cell membrane, triggering a cascade of events that lead to the activation of hormone-sensitive lipase (HSL), an enzyme that catalyzes the hydrolysis of triglycerides into glycerol and free fatty acids.
Regulation
The regulation of lipolysis is complex and involves multiple hormones and signaling pathways. Key regulators include insulin, which inhibits lipolysis, and glucagon, epinephrine, and norepinephrine, which stimulate lipolysis. Other factors, such as nutritional status, physical activity, and stress, can also influence lipolysis.
Related Terms
- Adipocyte: A type of cell that stores fat, also known as a fat cell.
- Triglyceride: A type of fat found in the blood and stored in fat cells.
- Glycerol: A sugar alcohol that forms the backbone of triglycerides.
- Free fatty acids: The products of lipolysis, which can be used as an energy source by many tissues.
- Hormone-sensitive lipase (HSL): An enzyme that catalyzes the breakdown of triglycerides in adipocytes.
See Also
- Lipogenesis: The process of fatty acid and triglyceride synthesis.
- Beta-oxidation: The process by which free fatty acids are broken down in the mitochondria to generate acetyl-CoA, which enters the citric acid cycle.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Lipolysis
- Wikipedia's article - Lipolysis
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