part of part of develops from adipocyte white adipocyte https://cellxgene.cziscience.com/cellguide/CL_0000448 White fat cells, also known as white adipocytes, are cells found primarily in the white adipose tissue, a specialized type of connective tissue that functions as the major storage site for energy in the form of lipids. This type of adipose cell is characterized by its large droplets of liquid fat, called triglycerides, which almost completely fill the cell pushing the nucleus and other organelles to the periphery. They appear white or yellowish in color due to their high cytoplasm lipid content. White fat cells are involved in lipogenesis, the metabolic process where excess glucose and other energy-rich compounds are converted into neutral fats for storage. Conversely, these cells also play a pivotal role in lipolysis, the breakdown of triglycerides to release glycerol and fatty acids, when required by the body. Moreover, these cells act as thermal insulators, helping to maintain the body's temperature. Importantly, white fat cells are crucial for the proper functioning of numerous physiological processes including appetite regulation, inflammatory response, and immunity. They are also known to secrete various hormones and cytokines, such as leptin and adiponectin, which are instrumental in regulating metabolic activities and maintaining overall metabolic homeostasis. Dysregulation of these cells, along with an accumulation of excess white fat, has been linked to several health issues including obesity, metabolic syndrome, and type 2 diabetes. (This extended description was generated by ChatGPT and reviewed by the CellGuide team, who added references, and by the CL editors, who approved it for inclusion in CL. It may contain information that applies only to some subtypes and species, and so should not be considered definitional.) white fat cell An adipocyte with light coloration and few mitochondria. It contains a scant ring of cytoplasm surrounding a single large lipid droplet or vacuole. white adipose cell CALOHA:TS-1119 FMA:83434 preadipocyte white adipose tissue