The complex, hormone-mediated biochemical communication pathway that controls the enzymatic breakdown of triglycerides into glycerol and free fatty acids within adipose tissue. This signaling is a crucial component of energy homeostasis, mobilizing stored energy for use by other tissues during periods of fasting or increased energy demand. Effective lipolysis signaling is essential for metabolic flexibility and body composition management.
Origin
This term is rooted in biochemistry and endocrinology, where ‘lipolysis’ is the hydrolysis of lipids and ‘signaling’ refers to the molecular communication network that regulates this process. The understanding of this pathway is fundamental to the study of metabolism, obesity, and the action of key metabolic hormones.
Mechanism
Lipolysis is primarily regulated by the activation of hormone-sensitive lipase (HSL) and adipose triglyceride lipase (ATGL), processes largely controlled by catecholamines and certain pituitary hormones. Glucagon and epinephrine stimulate this cascade via G-protein coupled receptors and subsequent cyclic AMP (cAMP) production. Conversely, insulin acts as a potent anti-lipolytic signal, inhibiting the process. The net rate of lipolysis is determined by the balance of these opposing hormonal inputs on the adipocyte.
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