Brown Adipose Tissue: Function and Development

Brown adipose tissue is mainly made of particular adipose cells, the brown adipocytes, distinct from white adipocytes. These cells are able to rapidly oxidise fatty acids and produce heat in response to specific physiological situations, instead to phophorylate ADP. Its activity as a powerful fat burner makes this tissue of interest, since potential applications to treat metabolic diseases are expected. Recent data obtained through the use of modern medical imagery revaluate the importance of BAT in human adults.