Fat Metabolism, or lipid metabolism, encompasses the biochemical processes responsible for the synthesis, storage, mobilization, and catabolism of fatty acids and triglycerides within the body. This process is intricately linked to energy homeostasis and is profoundly influenced by endocrine signaling, particularly insulin and glucagon. Effective fat metabolism is essential for providing cellular energy reserves and maintaining structural integrity of cell membranes. Dysregulation here often leads to altered body composition and metabolic syndrome features.
Origin
The term originates from the convergence of cellular biochemistry and the physiological study of nutrition and energy balance. ‘Metabolism’ itself refers to the sum of chemical processes that occur in an organism to maintain life, derived from the Greek ‘metabole’ meaning change. Its study became central to understanding weight management and energy partitioning.
Mechanism
The process involves lipolysis, the breakdown of stored triglycerides into free fatty acids and glycerol, often stimulated by catecholamines or growth hormone. These fatty acids then undergo beta-oxidation in the mitochondria to produce acetyl-CoA, fueling the Krebs cycle for ATP generation. Insulin generally opposes lipolysis, promoting lipid storage when energy substrates are abundant. Hormonal interplay dictates whether the body is in a net storage or utilization state for lipid substrates.
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