Effect of semi-compulsory alcoholization on brown fat in mice

We studied brown adipose tissue isolated from mice receiving 20% ethanol as a single source of fluid. In vitro O2 utilization by brown adipose tissue decreased after one month of forced alcohol intake, but surpassed the control after 3 months of ethanol drinking. The absolute and relative weight of brown adipose tissue also increased at this term. The rate of in vivo O2 utilization also decreased during the first experimental month and returned to normal after 3 months.