Adipose tissue is a type of connective tissue that is primarily composed of fat cells or adipocytes. It is an essential component of the human body, providing insulation, cushioning, and energy storage. Adipose tissue is found in various parts of the body, including beneath the skin, around internal organs, and in bone marrow.
Definitions
Adipose tissue is defined as a specialized type of connective tissue that stores energy in the form of fat. It is made up of adipocytes, which are cells that contain large lipid droplets. Adipose tissue is also known as fat tissue, and it is classified as either white adipose tissue or brown adipose tissue.
Origin
Adipose tissue is formed during embryonic development and continues to develop throughout life. It is derived from mesenchymal stem cells, which are cells that can differentiate into various types of connective tissue, including bone, cartilage, and fat.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, adipose tissue is defined as “connective tissue in which fat is stored and which has the cells distended by droplets of fat.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines adipose tissue as “a type of connective tissue that stores fat, found chiefly beneath the skin and around internal organs.”
Associations
Adipose tissue is associated with obesity, metabolic disorders, and cardiovascular disease. Excess accumulation of adipose tissue can lead to health problems, such as insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, and high blood pressure. However, adipose tissue is also important for regulating energy balance and maintaining homeostasis.
Synonyms
Synonyms of adipose tissue include fat tissue, fatty tissue, adiposity, and lipoid tissue.
Antonyms
Antonyms of adipose tissue include lean tissue, muscle tissue, and bone tissue.
The same root words
Adipose tissue is derived from the Latin word “adeps,” which means fat. The same root words are used in other related terms, such as adipocyte (fat cell), adipogenesis (the process of fat cell formation), and adipokine (a hormone secreted by adipose tissue).
Example Sentences
- Excess accumulation of adipose tissue can lead to health problems such as diabetes and heart disease.
- Adipose tissue is an important energy reserve for the body.
- Liposuction is a cosmetic procedure that removes excess adipose tissue from the body.
- Brown adipose tissue is found in higher amounts in newborns and hibernating animals.
- Adipose tissue secretes hormones that regulate metabolism and appetite.