Castration-induced changes in mouse epididymal white adipose tissue

► We analyzed the effects of sustained castration on epididymal white adipose tissue (WAT) in C57BL/6J mice which were fed a regular or high-fat diet. ► Castration has profound effects on WAT morphology (smaller adipocytes and increased stromal cell compartment) and function. ► Castration reduces WAT wet weight and WAT wet weight/body weight ratio. ► Serum leptin levels are reduced after castration independent of diet; changes in adiponectin and resistin were diet-dependent. ► Castration induces specific chemokines and cytokines in WAT.