Adipose Tissue

Functions of Adipose Tissue

• Storage of Fat
  • Fat serves as an energy source for the organism
  • Fat has more energy per gram than glucose
• Cushioning of Organs
  • Adipose tissue cushions organs such as the eyes, heart, and kidneys
• Insulation
  • Adipose tissue under the skin helps insulate the body from the cold

Characteristics of Adipose Tissue

• Adipose cells are large cells
  • Size depends on the amount of fat stored
  • Central area of the cell is the fat storage area
• As fat accumulates, the nucleus is pushed to the side
• Cells are closer together compared to other connective tissues
  • Resemble air bubbles or spaces within tissue when viewed under a microscope

Microscope Observations

• Surrounds organs like the trachea to provide cushioning
• Individual adipose cells can be identified under a microscope
  • Nucleus may not always be visible depending on the cell section
  • Large central fat storage area is characteristic