What Role Does Adipose Tissue Play in Metabolic Health?
Adipose tissue, commonly known as body fat, plays a significant role in metabolic health. It is not just a passive storage site for fat but an active endocrine organ that secretes hormones like leptin and adiponectin. These hormones regulate appetite, energy expenditure, and insulin sensitivity. Histological studies of adipose tissue can reveal the distribution and size of adipocytes, the presence of inflammation, and the extent of fibrosis, all of which are critical markers of metabolic health.