Tkanka tłuszczowa jako narzÄ d wydzielania wewnętrznego

Adipose tissue is a complex and highly active metabolic and endocrine organ. Adipocytes and nonadipocyte fraction of this tissue (connective tissue matrix, nerve tissue, stromovascular cells, immune cells) express and secrete several bioactive peptides known as adipokines, acting at the autocrine/paracrine as well as at the endocrine level. Adipose tissue is also a major site of local production and metabolism of sex steroids and glucocorticoids. A better understanding of the endocrine function of adipose tissue may promote the development of more rational therapy and prevention strategies for obesity and it's consequences. This paper presents a recent review of the endocrine functions of adipose tissue.