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Updated: Jul 15, 2026
08:57
The Isolation and Culture of Primary Epicardial Cells Derived from Human Adult and Fetal Heart Specimens
Published on: April 24, 2018
Epicardial fat: properties, function and relationship to obesity.
1Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada. rabkin@interchange.ubc.ca
Summary
Epicardial fat, a heart component, is linked to obesity and coronary artery disease. Understanding its role is crucial for cardiovascular health in obese individuals.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Metabolic Syndrome
- Adipose Tissue Biology
Background:
- Epicardial fat is a distinct adipose tissue depot surrounding the heart.
- Its unique biochemical properties and physiological functions are increasingly recognized.
- Its relationship with obesity and cardiovascular disease warrants further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review anatomic and biochemical data on epicardial fat.
- To examine the link between epicardial fat and obesity.
- To explore epicardial fat's role in obesity-related coronary atherothrombotic disease.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing anatomic and biochemical data on epicardial fat.
- Analysis of observational studies correlating epicardial fat with obesity.
- Examination of evidence linking epicardial fat to coronary artery disease pathogenesis.
Main Results:
- Epicardial fat has unique cellular and molecular properties differentiating it from other fat depots.
- Epicardial fat mass correlates directly with general body adiposity and visceral adiposity.
- Evidence suggests epicardial fat contributes to coronary atherosclerosis and atherothrombosis.
Conclusions:
- Epicardial fat plays a significant role in the pathogenesis of coronary artery disease.
- It may be a key factor mediating cardiovascular risks associated with obesity.
- Further research into epicardial fat's function is essential for cardiovascular disease prevention and treatment.
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