part of part of adipocyte cardiocyte epicardial adipocyte epicardial fat cell https://cellxgene.cziscience.com/cellguide/CL_1000309 Epicardial adipocytes are a type of specialized cell found in the epicardial adipose tissue (EAT). This specific adipose tissue is located between the myocardium (the heart muscle) and the visceral pericardium (the innermost layer of the pericardium). Epicardial adipocytes store energy in the form of lipids; specifically, triglyceride droplets. These cells can rapidly mobilize and release these fatty acid molecules, when required, providing an effective and efficient energy source to the body. This energy is particularly important to the heart, which is one of the highest energy-demanding organs. The proximity of these specialized cells to the myocardium allows for direct and rapid transmission of these fatty acid molecules to meet the heart’s energy needs. Beyond their primary role in energy storage and regulation, epicardial adipocytes also play a pivotal role in providing a protective cushioning to the heart, releasing several beneficial adipokines which impacts cardiac function, along with acting as a source of stem cells. Adipocytes also contribute significantly to cardiac health and function in other ways. They have been found to secrete multiple bioactive molecules, known as adipokines, which can influence local cardiac function and overall cardiovascular health. Adipokines such as adiponectin, leptin and resistin regulate aspects of cardiac metabolism, inflammation, and contractility. Additionally, studies have also pointed towards epicardial adipocytes as a potential reservoir of adult epicardial progenitor cells, which can give rise to smooth muscle cells, endothelial cells and more adipocytes, thus contributing to cardiac repair and regeneration. Despite these important functions, an excess of epicardial adipose tissue has been associated with cardiovascular disease, indicating the importance of understanding and managing the balance of these unique cells in the body. (This extended description was generated by ChatGPT and reviewed by the CellGuide team, who added references, and by the CL editors, who approved it for inclusion in CL. It may contain information that applies only to some subtypes and species, and so should not be considered definitional.) FMA:261293 adipocyte of epicardial fat An adipocyte that is part of the epicardial fat. epicardium