In vitro systems for the analysis of the development of adipose tissue in domestic animals.

In vitro models have been used for many years to assess processes that regulate metabolic activity of adipocytes or that regulate proliferation and differentiation of precursor cells for adipocytes (preadipocytes). The results of these studies have been useful in characterizing the role of various hormones and growth factors in regulating the cellular activities of preadipocytes and adipocytes from domestic animals. Mechanisms that regulate the proliferation and differentiation of the preadipocyte are currently being evaluated with the use of a variety of cell culture systems: matrix suspension, coverslip, micromass, clonal etc. Isolated cell culture of adipose tissue and the tools of molecular biology have allowed direct examination of the effects of potential regulatory hormones of adipogenesis upon gene expression during the development of adipose tissue in domestic animals. Much information has been collected by combining the use of in vivo animal manipulations and in vitro assay techniques to elucidate the mechanisms that affect adipocyte function or formation. The development of in vitro tools to manipulate the development of adipose tissue should result in an increase in our knowledge of the regulation of adipose tissue formation and thus should permit the development of methods to produce leaner and more efficient domestic animals.