adipose tissue macrophage
Immune cells residing in fat tissue that contribute to inflammation and insulin resistance in obesity.
Full Definition
Adipose tissue macrophages are specialized immune cells that infiltrate fat tissue, particularly visceral fat, in response to obesity-related stress signals. These cells exist in different phenotypes: M1 (pro-inflammatory) and M2 (anti-inflammatory). In obesity, there is a shift toward M1 macrophages, which secrete inflammatory cytokines that impair insulin signaling and contribute to systemic insulin resistance. The accumulation and activation of these macrophages represents a key mechanistic link between obesity and cardiometabolic disease. Understanding adipose tissue macrophage biology has opened new therapeutic targets for treating metabolic disorders.
Usage
Usage note: Often abbreviated as ATM in specialized literature
In Context
- "Adipose tissue macrophages play a central role in obesity-induced inflammation." — Research manuscript
- "The polarization of adipose tissue macrophages from M2 to M1 phenotype promotes insulin resistance." — Review article