Adipose tissue is a metabolically dynamic organ that is the primary site of storage for excess energy but it serves as an endocrine organ capable of synthesizing a number of biologically active compounds that regulate metabolic homeostasis.

Do adipocytes secrete hormones?

Although adipocytes express and secrete several endocrine hormones such as leptin and adiponectin, many secreted proteins are derived from the nonadipocyte fraction of adipose tissue (9). Regardless, these components function as an integrated unit, making adipose tissue a true endocrine organ (8).

What metabolic pathways does adipocytes use?

Adipose tissue lipolysis is the catabolic process leading to the breakdown of triglycerides stored in fat cells and release of fatty acids and glycerol. Recent work has revealed that lipolysis is not a simple metabolic pathway stimulated by catecholamines and inhibited by insulin.