Some Hormonal Influences on Fat Mobilization from Adipose Tissue

Abstract

The role of hormones in mobilization of free fatty acids from adipose tissue is reviewed. Evidence is discussed indicating that epinephrine, norepinephrine, ACTH and other hormones which stimulate release of fatty acids from adipose tissue, do so by promoting lipolysis. Their actions in either promoting or inhibiting glucose uptake in vitro are interpreted as being secondary to changes in intracellular concentration of free fatty acids. The action of insulin in retarding net free fatty acid release is mediated through a primary action on carbohydrate metabolism and not by directly inhibiting lipolysis.