The papers of this issue will underscore numerous differences in cellularity (development, growth, metabolic function, and regulation) of different adipose depots. Such information is useful in deciphering adipose depot involvement in normal physiology and in times of pathology. Obesity, diabetes, metabolic syndrome, carcass composition of meat animals, performance of elite athletes, physiology/pathophysiology of aging and numerous (other) circumstances might be altered, if one knows more about adipose depots and the cells that comprise them—during initial development and subsequently during periods of normal/abnormal growth into senescence.
There are so many disciplines that would relish more information having to do with adipose depots and their formation, function and existence that in our initial attempt at collating such an issue, we asked colleagues around the world to share in this effort. Adipocyte is a solid vehicle for such offerings and we are hopeful that the final product receives attention from the scientific community. In the final analysis, progression of knowledge in this area is our goal.
Whether animals (companion, production, clinical, or pathological), humans (normal development and growth, pathology, clinical, or senescence), or food products, fat (adipose tissue) is relevant. Fat keeps us (all) alive by sustaining us when energy is drained, cushioning us in places we place stress upon, and giving our bodies structure, and (yet) there is so much we need to know about how adipose tissue is alive and dynamic. Adipose tissue communicates with other cells, organs and tissues. Both positive and negative regulation is exerted by this tissue—affecting satiety, metabolism, endocrine system, and cellularity of other tissues. This issue of Adipocyte is meant to direct attention to these issues, which are relevant and important.
Disclosure of Potential Conflicts of Interest
No potential conflicts of interest were disclosed.