Adipocyte progenitor cells

Adipocyte progenitor cells (APCs), also known as preadipocytes, are mesenchymal stem cells committed to the adipocyte lineage. They reside in adipose tissue depots and have the capacity to proliferate and differentiate into mature lipid-filled adipocytes. They play key roles in adipose tissue expansion, both in normal growth and in obesity. They also secrete various factors (adipokines) and contribute to tissue remodeling.