What is the Origin of Non Adipocyte Fraction?

This term is a descriptive, anatomical and cellular classification used in adipose tissue biology. It separates the metabolically inert lipid-storing cells from the dynamic, regulatory cells that form the structural and functional matrix of the tissue. Clinical research increasingly focuses on the NAF's composition as a key indicator of metabolic health and tissue quality.

What is the Mechanism of Non Adipocyte Fraction?

Cells within the NAF, particularly the immune cells and pre-adipocytes, actively secrete adipokines and inflammatory cytokines that modulate the function of the neighboring mature adipocytes. For instance, an increase in macrophage content within the NAF signals a state of chronic inflammation, leading to impaired insulin sensitivity in the fat cells. The functional interplay between the adipocytes and the NAF determines the overall health and endocrine output of the adipose tissue.

Non Adipocyte Fraction ∞ Area

Non Adipocyte Fraction

Meaning

The Non Adipocyte Fraction (NAF) refers to the heterogeneous population of cells within adipose tissue that are not mature fat-storing adipocytes. This fraction is composed primarily of the Stromovascular Fraction (SVF), which includes pre-adipocytes, endothelial cells, pericytes, and various immune cells like macrophages. The NAF is functionally critical as it dictates the inflammatory, angiogenic, and regenerative capacity of the fat depot.