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Adipose Tissue

By Jennifer R. Scott, About.com

Updated: November 17, 2008

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by our Medical Review Board

adipose tissue

Adipose tissue.

Image courtesy of cancer.gov.
Definition: Adipose tissue is connective tissue in which energy in the form of fat is stored.

The cells in adipose tissue (adipocytes) are distended by droplets of fat. Adipose tissue helps to cushion and insulate the body. Obese individuals have an excessive amount of adipose tissue.

Pronunciation: add-ih-POSE
Also Known As: fat tissue, body fat
Alternate Spellings: adiposity
Examples: In the human body, adipose tissue is found beneath the skin and surrounding internal organs.

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