Understanding the brown adipocyte as a contributor to energy homeostasis

Highlights • Brown adipocytes express UCP1, which is capable of uncoupling fatty acid oxidation from ATP synthesis, leading to heat production upon stimulation. • The presence of active brown adipocytes has been demonstrated in adult humans. • Outdoor temperatures, age, and body fat mass affect the detection and activity of brown adipocytes in humans. • Metabolic activity of brown adipocytes has been shown to increase energy expenditure in humans. • Environmental, biological, or pharmacological means capable of stimulating brown adipose tissue selectively may serve to counteract obesity and diabetes.