Changes in cell number and size and in lipogenic enzyme activity in adipose tissues during growth and fattening of Lacha (Manech) lambs

Abstract

Variations during growth and fattening in the number and size of adipocytes and in the activity of the lipogenic enzymes, G3PDH, FAS, EM and G6PDH, were studied in the omental, mesenteric, kidney knob and channel fat, subcutaneous and intermuscular adipose tissues of 57 male Lacha (Manech) lambs. The animals were slaughtered at live weights (LW) of 11.4 (n = 15), 18.1 (n = 15), 24.6 (n = 15) and 35.3 (H = 12) kg. A significant increase in the quantity of fat was observed as the LW of the lambs increased (P < 0.001). Fattening was more rapid between 24 and 36 kg LW than between 12 and 24 kg LW. Hyperplasia of adipocytes occurred predominantly between 12 and 24 kg, when changes in size and lipogenic activity were small. Between 24 and 36 kg LW, a marked increase in fat deposition was accompanied by an increase in the size of adipocytes and in lipogenic enzyme activity.