Multilocular adipose tissue is present in humans during fetal life and newborns, where it is concentrated mainly in the pelvic and shoulder girdle regions. Most of it gradually disappears after birth, although small amounts may persist in adults.
This type of adipose tissue is particularly important in hibernating animals, especially when they emerge from hibernation. During this period the mitochondria of this type of adipocytes release heat rather than producing ATP. The released heat warms the blood of the vessels that flow through vessels within the multilocular adipose tissue and helps to warm the rest of the body.
The cytoplasm of multilocular adipocytes is almost entirely occupied by small lipid droplets, giving the cells a spongy appearance. Their nuclei are usually spherical and placed close to the cell center or at its periphery. A very distinct rim of cytoplasm can be observed at the cell periphery.
By hovering the cursor or clicking on the images, several adipocytes are highlighted, allowing you to distinguish their cytoplasm containing lipid droplets (in light brown/pink) and nuclei (in blue).
Multilocular adipose tissue. Staining: HE. Medium magnification.
Multilocular adipose tissue. Staining: HE. High magnification.
END OF CHAPTER 5 – ADIPOSE TISSUE