rasvkoesse

Rasvkoe (adipose tissue) is a type of loose connective tissue composed predominantly of adipocytes that specialize in storing energy as triglycerides. Beyond energy reserve, it provides mechanical cushioning and thermal insulation. In addition, rasvkoe functions as an endocrine organ, releasing adipokines such as leptin and adiponectin that influence appetite, insulin sensitivity, and inflammation.

There are two main types of rasvkoe: white adipose tissue (WAT) and brown adipose tissue (BAT). WAT stores excess energy and acts as an insulator, while BAT dissipates energy as heat through thermogenesis mediated by the protein UCP1. Beige adipocytes can emerge within WAT under certain stimuli (e.g., cold exposure) and acquire BAT-like thermogenic properties. The distribution of rasvkoe varies: subcutaneous fat lies beneath the skin, whereas visceral fat surrounds internal organs in the abdominal cavity. In addition to these, small deposits exist in other sites, including marrow adipose tissue. Histologically, adipocytes are large cells with a single, central or peripherally displaced lipid droplet, surrounded by a vascularized stroma containing immune and preadipocyte cells.

Adipogenesis, the formation of adipocytes, arises from mesenchymal stem cells and is regulated by transcription factors such as PPARγ and C/EBPα. Rasvkoe communicates with the rest of the body through hormones and cytokines; insulin promotes fat storage, while catecholamines stimulate lipolysis. Obesity, lipodystrophy, and metabolic syndrome reflect altered rasvkoe biology, including changes in adipokine signaling and chronic low-grade inflammation in the tissue.