Subcutaneous Adipocyte Lipolysis Contributes to Circulating Lipid Levels

OBJECTIVE—Fatty acids released via fat cell lipolysis can affect circulating lipid levels. However, the contribution of different lipolysis measures in adipose tissue is unknown and was presently examined in isolated subcutaneous adipocytes. APPROACH AND RESULTS—One thousand and sixty-six men and women were examined for lipolysis regulation in subcutaneous abdominal fat cells. Results were compared with fasting plasma levels of total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol (HDL-C) and triglycerides. Spontaneous (basal) lipolysis and the effects of the major hormones stimulating (catecholamines and natriuretic peptides) and inhibiting lipolysis (insulin) were examined. Several statistically significant (P