Bone marrow adipose tissue

Bone marrow adipose tissue (BMAT), also referred to as marrow adipose tissue (MAT), is a type of adipose tissue (fat deposit) found within the bone marrow. BMAT increases in conditions associated with low bone density, such as osteoporosis, anorexia nervosa and caloric restriction, and skeletal weightlessness such as that occurring during spaceflight. It has also been linked to certain anti-diabetic therapies.

Conversely, BMAT decreases in conditions such as anaemia, leukaemia, and hypertensive heart failure; in response to hormones including oestrogen, leptin, and growth hormone; with exercise-induced weight loss or bariatric surgery; following chronic cold exposure; and after treatment with pharmacological agents such as bisphosphonates, teriparatide, and metformin.