Subcutaneous and visceral adipose tissue: Their relation to the metabolic syndrome

Methods for assessment, e.g., anthropometric indicators and imaging techniq ues, of several phenotypes of human obesity, with special reference to abdo minal fat content, have been evaluated. The correlation of fat distribution with age, gender, total body fat, energy balance, adipose tissue lipoprote in lipase and lipolytic activity, adipose tissue receptors, and genetic cha racteristics are discussed. Several secreted or expressed factors in the ad ipocyte are evaluated in the context of fat tissue localization. The body f at distribution and the metabolic profile in nonobese and obese individuals is discussed relative to lipolysis, antilypolysis and lipogenesis, insulin sensitivity, and glucose, lipid, and protein metabolism. Finally, the endo crine regulation of abdominal visceral fat in comparison with the adipose t issue localized in other areas is presented.