Metabolic Function of the Adipose Tissue

The adipose tissue is a structurally complex, highly dynamic, and metabolically active organ that maintains whole-body energy homeostasis. It acts as a dynamic energy reservoir under different physiological states, converting chemical energy into heat via non-shivering thermogenesis and communicating with the rest of the body through endocrine signals. To perform these functions, adipose tissue must quickly adapt to its intracellular metabolism and provide a continuous supply of energy donors (or heat) to maintain whole-body energy homeostasis. This is accomplished by coordinating the metabolism of lipids, carbohydrates, and certain amino acids in a strictly regulated and well-balanced manner. This chapter summarizes the most important aspects of adipose tissue metabolic pathways occurring in white and brown adipocytes to ensure an adequate supply of energy substrates for other tissues is available within healthy ranges under various physiological states. The metabolism of different lipids, glucose, and amino acids, along with their specific regulation in adipose tissue, are further discussed, emphasizing the unique factors influencing the structure and function of this tissue type. Thus, contributing to more in-depth understanding of the importance of adipose tissue in metabolic health and highlighting some of the potential mechanisms underlying the development of metabolic disorders.