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Updated: Jul 10, 2026
13:09
Segmentation and Measurement of Fat Volumes in Murine Obesity Models Using X-ray Computed Tomography
Published on: April 4, 2012
Oscillations in total body fat content through life: an evolutionary perspective
1Division of Endocrinology, Hospital General i Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain. 26276czl@comb.es
Summary
Body fat increases occur early in life, during pregnancy, and with aging. Evolutionary pressures may explain these changes, including increased adiposity in senescence, to ensure energy availability.
Area of Science:
- Physiology
- Evolutionary Biology
- Gerontology
Background:
- Adipose tissue is a key energy storage system in the body.
- Body fat mass naturally fluctuates throughout life.
- Significant increases in fat mass are observed during early development, pregnancy/lactation, and aging.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review age-related changes in adipose tissue depots.
- To explore an evolutionary perspective on age-related fat gain.
- To investigate the potential adaptive significance of increased adiposity in senescence.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on age-related changes in fat depots.
- Analysis of existing evidence on body fat oscillations.
- Synthesis of evolutionary theories regarding energy storage.
Main Results:
- Body fat increases are documented in early life, pregnancy, and aging.
- Early life and pregnancy fat gains are linked to offspring energy needs.
- Emerging evidence suggests aging-related adiposity may also have an evolutionary basis.
Conclusions:
- Age-related changes in fat depots are a significant physiological phenomenon.
- An evolutionary framework may provide insights into why body fat increases with age.
- Further research is warranted to fully understand the adaptive role of senescence-related adiposity.
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