This article explores the two main types of adipose tissue, or fat, found in mammals: white adipose tissue (WAT), or white fat, and brown adipose tissue (BAT), or brown fat. White fat serves three functions: as heat insulation, as mechanical cushioning and, most importantly, as an energy source. Brown fat is important for thermogenesis (making heat) in newborns, but precisely what purpose the cells serve in adults is still unclear.
In 2012, scientists discovered a third type of fat, something called beige fat. Beige fat cells are brown fat cells that occur in white fat tissue in response to certain triggers, like extreme cold.
We also ask if targeting brown or beige fat could lead to new treatments for obesity. This article is part of 'Big Picture: Fat' (www.bigpictureeducation.com/fat), published by the Wellcome Trust in December 2015.
In 2012, scientists discovered a third type of fat, something called beige fat. Beige fat cells are brown fat cells that occur in white fat tissue in response to certain triggers, like extreme cold.
We also ask if targeting brown or beige fat could lead to new treatments for obesity. This article is part of 'Big Picture: Fat' (www.bigpictureeducation.com/fat), published by the Wellcome Trust in December 2015.
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