Page 186 - Atlas of Histology with Functional Correlations

balance, food intake, and the formation of new adipose tissue.

Brown Adipose Tissue (Multilocular)

In contrast to the white adipose tissue, which is present throughout the body,
brown adipose tissue has a more limited distribution. These cells are smaller
than white adipose tissue cells and store lipids as multiple small droplets
(multilocular). Brown adipose tissue is found in all mammals, but is best
developed in hibernating animals. The main function of brown adipose

tissue is to supply the body with heat through nonshivering thermogenesis.
In newborn humans exposed to cold and in fur-bearing animals emerging
from hibernation, brown adipose tissue generates and increases body heat

during these critical periods as a protective measure. The sympathetic
nervous system regulates the production of heat by brown adipose, which
releases norepinephrine to hydrolyze lipids into fatty acids and glycerol.
The amount of brown adipose tissue gradually decreases in older individuals
and is mainly found around the adrenal glands, great vessels, and in the neck

region. However, as an adaptation, the cold environment activates the
development of brown adipose cells and tissue.

Summary

Connective Tissue

Develops from mesenchyme and consists of cells and extracellular matrix
Matrix consists of tissue fluid, the ground substance

Embryonic connective tissue is present in the umbilical cord and developing
teeth
Ground substance is a medium for exchange of nutrients, oxygen, and waste

Because of its consistency, ground substance serves as a barrier to pathogenic
molecules
Contains numerous cells that protect and defend body against bacteria and
foreign bodies
Classified as loose or dense connective tissue

CLASSIFICATION

185