Site-specific properties of human adipose depots homologous to those of other mammals.

1. Mean adipocyte volume, collagen content and the maximum activities of hexokinase and phosphofructokinase were measure in 15 depots of 8 men who were in good health until their sudden death. The data were used to establish homologies between depots in humans and other mammals. 2. The basic organization of adipose tissue in humans is similar to that of other mammals, although additional depots that are minimal or absent in rodents may be massive in humans. 3. Known site-specific properties relevant to manipulation of adipose tissue are reviewed.