Adipocyte

An adipocyte is a specialized cell that stores energy as fat and releases hormones and other signals that influence metabolism, appetite, and inflammation.

Lipogenesis: The synthesis of fatty acids and their incorporation into storage lipids. Adipocytes use this process to convert excess energy into stored fat.
Triglyceride: A lipid molecule consisting of glycerol bonded to three fatty acids. This is the principal chemical form of energy stored inside adipocytes.
White adipocyte: An adipocyte specialized for storing triglycerides in a large lipid droplet and releasing metabolic signals. It is the common energy-storing subtype contrasted with heat-producing adipocytes.
Obesity: A chronic condition characterized by excess or dysfunctional body fat that can impair health. Adipocyte size, number, and signaling change in obesity.
Lipolysis: The breakdown of stored triglycerides into fatty acids and glycerol. It supplies fuel from adipocyte reserves when energy demand rises.
Lipid droplet: An intracellular structure that stores neutral lipids within a phospholipid monolayer. Adipocytes accumulate triglycerides in large lipid droplets.
Brown adipocyte: An adipocyte rich in mitochondria that generates heat by uncoupling oxidative phosphorylation. Its thermogenic function contrasts with the main storage role of white adipocytes.
Insulin resistance: A reduced biological response to insulin in target tissues. Dysfunctional adipocyte signaling can contribute to insulin resistance.
Leptin: A hormone produced mainly by adipocytes that signals energy stores to the brain. Adipocyte-derived leptin helps regulate appetite and long-term energy balance.
Fatty acid: A carboxylic acid with a hydrocarbon chain, used in energy storage and membrane structure. Fatty acids are stored in adipocytes and released during fuel mobilization.

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