Lixin Chen, Rui Shang, Yiman Zhao, Shunqin He, Yanfei Mei

Yunnan Medical Health College

Abstract：

Animal adipose tissue is a highly specialized and vital tissue in the body, playing a pivotal physiological role in helping mammals adapt to environmental changes. It exhibits remarkable flexibility in regulating energy storage and mobilization, effectively performing thermoregulation and mechanical protection functions, while also participating in energy metabolism and exerting immunomodulatory effects. The synergistic action of these physiological processes aids mammals in maintaining a stable physiological state. Among them, brown adipose tissue (BAT), as one of the three major types of adipose tissue in mammals, transcends the traditional perception of adipose tissue as merely an "energy reservoir " due to its unique non-shivering thermogenic function. In recent years, with the widespread application of PET/CT imaging technology and significant breakthroughs in molecular biology research, the crucial value of BAT in metabolic regulation, disease prevention, and treatment is being redefined and recognized anew. This article will systematically integrate the latest research findings, providing an in-depth discussion from four dimensions: differentiation origin, tissue structural characteristics, core physiological functions, and its association with metabolic diseases. It aims to highlight the value of BAT as a"metabolic regulator " and offer novel theoretical foundations and strategic directions for precise interventions in metabolic syndrome.

Key Words：

adipose tissue; brown adipose tissue (BAT); differentiation origin; physiological functions; metabolic diseases