Embryonic adipose development and consequences in later life

Adipose tissues distribute throughout the mammalian organs, though large deposits localize at specific anatomical sites, such as visceral, subcutaneous, intermuscular, and intramuscular fats. The embryonic origin of adipose tissues has been mapped using genetic mutant mice, and multiple lineages of adipose progenitor cells are recognized. We review literature for evidence of a population of embryonic adipose progenitor cells that develop in response to the abundance of caloric supplies. This adipocyte population of embryonic or juvenal origin is a likely candidate of adipocytes accounting for obesity and metabolic pathology in adults. Thus, we suggest a mechanism underlying early caloric excess impacts on obesity and metabolic problems later in adults.