Adipose tissue, commonly known as body fat, produces several hormones, playing a crucial role in various bodily functions. While many factors are secreted from adipose tissue, leptin and adiponectin are the most widely accepted as true adipose-derived endocrine hormones. These hormones are released from adipose tissue and have defined effects on target organs.
Key Adipose-Derived Hormones:
-
Leptin: A hormone primarily regulating appetite and energy expenditure. It signals satiety (fullness) to the brain, helping to control food intake. Leptin is also involved in other metabolic processes. [Source: Multiple references cited below indicate leptin as a key hormone produced by adipose tissue.]
-
Adiponectin: This hormone is involved in glucose regulation and fatty acid metabolism, contributing to insulin sensitivity. Lower levels of adiponectin are often associated with insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. [Source: Multiple references cited below indicate adiponectin as a key hormone produced by adipose tissue.]
Other Factors Secreted by Adipose Tissue:
While leptin and adiponectin are the primary acknowledged hormones, research indicates that adipose tissue also secretes other bioactive molecules with potential endocrine functions, including:
- Resistin: Linked to insulin resistance. [Source: Wikipedia article on Adipose-derived hormones.]
- Aromatase: Involved in sex hormone metabolism. [Source: Your Hormones info on Adipose Tissue]
- Cytokines (TNF-alpha, IL-6): These inflammatory molecules are also produced by adipose tissue. [Source: Your Hormones info on Adipose Tissue]
- Estrogen: Adipose tissue contributes to estrogen synthesis, particularly in post-menopausal women. [Source: ScienceDirect article on Adipose tissue estrogen production].
It's important to note that the exact roles and interactions of these various factors are still being actively investigated.
