Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 27, 2026

Identification and Dissection of Diverse Mouse Adipose Depots
Published on: July 11, 2019
[Adipose tissue, nutrition and reproduction: what is the link?]
Philippe Monget1, Christine Chabrolle, Joëlle Dupont
1Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, UMR 6175 INRA-CNRS-Université de Tours, 37380 Nouzilly.
Abstract:
The body mass index, and especially the lean/fat tissue ratio, are determinants of female fertility. In 1996, it was claimed that leptin might be the "missing link" between fat and reproduction. Leptin belongs to the adipokine family, which also contains adiponectin and resistin. Leptin and resistin impair insulin sensitivity, whereas adiponectin enhances it. Leptin is a potent stimulator of central GnRH and gonadotropin secretion, and, paradoxically, a potent inhibitor of ovarian steroidogenesis. The central roles of adiponectin and resistin are less clear. In the ovary, adiponectin stimulates steroidogenesis by granulosa cells. Recent data point to the existence of a distinct lipid metabolism in the ovary. Its role in female reproduction will provide an exciting field of research in coming years.
Related Concept Videos
Hypodermis
Fats as Energy Storage Molecules
Fats as Energy Storage Molecules
Obesity
Loose Connective Tissue
Adipose Tissue
Adipose tissue consists primarily of fat storage cells called adipocytes and little extracellular matrix. A large number of capillaries present within adipose tissue allow rapid mobilization of lipid molecules. White adipose tissue is...
Regulation of Food Intake

