Adipocyte Hypertrophy clinically defines the excessive enlargement of existing fat cells, known as adipocytes, primarily due to the storage of an increased volume of triglycerides. This cellular expansion contrasts with adipocyte hyperplasia, which involves the creation of new fat cells. The condition is fundamentally linked to chronic positive energy balance and represents a key pathophysiological feature in the development of insulin resistance and metabolic dysfunction. Understanding this process is crucial for addressing the hormonal imbalances associated with increased visceral fat accumulation.
Origin
The term is derived from Greek roots: adipo- meaning fat, -cyte meaning cell, and hypertrophy meaning over-nourishment or excessive growth. It originates within the fields of cellular biology and endocrinology, describing a pathological change in adipose tissue structure. The concept became central to metabolic research as the role of fat tissue shifted from a passive energy reservoir to an active endocrine organ.
Mechanism
The process is triggered when the adipocyte’s capacity for lipid storage is exceeded, often driven by hyperinsulinemia and a high influx of fatty acids. The cell attempts to sequester this excess energy by increasing its size rather than undergoing proliferation. This dramatic expansion leads to cellular stress, reduced oxygen supply, and a shift in the adipocyte’s secretory profile, promoting a state of chronic low-grade inflammation. These changes impair insulin signaling locally and systemically, ultimately contributing to metabolic syndrome.
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