Adipose as an endocrine organ
In addition to its primary role in storage, adipose tissue is the
largest endocrine organ in the body, producing and responding to
hormonal signals and critical in the cross-talk between metabolic organs
which govern energy homeostasis. Adipocytes secrete bioactive peptides
(adipokines and adipocytokines) which can act locally
(autocrine/paracrine) or systemically. Adipose also possesses a complex
receptor profile which allows it to respond to endocrine and nervous
input. Finally, adipocytes are able to exert fine control over endocrine
signalling through their enzyme machinery, important in the metabolism
of hormones, particularly steroid hormones. Our understanding of the
equine adipocyte endocrine profile is more limited than that of humans
or rodents but some data exist.