Adipolysis is a medical term that refers to the breakdown of fat cells in the body. The word is spelled with the prefix "adipo-" which comes from the Latin word for fat, and the suffix "-lysis" which means breakdown or destruction. In IPA phonetic transcription, the word is pronounced [ædɪˈpɑlɪsɪs], with the stress on the second syllable. This term is commonly used in the field of weight loss, and understanding its meaning and correct spelling is important for those studying or working in the medical field.
Adipolysis refers to the process of breaking down and reducing fat cells or adipose tissues in the body. It is derived from the combination of two terms: "adipo" meaning fat and "lysis" meaning breakdown. Adipolysis typically occurs as a result of various physiological mechanisms, including changes in hormone levels, increased physical activity, and energy expenditure.
The process of adipolysis involves the release of stored triglycerides, which are the main components of fat cells. This release is facilitated by the presence of lipases, enzymes that break down triglycerides into fatty acids and glycerol. The resulting fatty acids can then be utilized by the body as a source of energy, or they can be reabsorbed by other fat cells for storage.
Adipolysis is an essential component of weight loss and body fat reduction, as it is the systematic breakdown and elimination of fat cells that contribute to excess body fat. It is influenced by factors such as diet, exercise, genetics, and overall metabolism. Several methods can enhance the process of adipolysis, including specialized diets, targeted exercises, and certain medical interventions.
The term adipolysis may also be used in the context of medical research to study the molecular mechanisms and pathways involved in the breakdown of fat cells. Understanding adipolysis can have implications for various fields, including obesity research, metabolic disorders, and the development of novel treatments for fat-related conditions.
The destruction of fat by hydrolysis.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "adipolysis" is derived from two Greek words: "adipo" meaning fat, and "lysis" meaning dissolution or breakdown.