How does brown adipose tissue contribute to an increased resting metabolic rate?

Brown adipose tissue (BAT) plays a significant role in thermogenesis, particularly through the utilization of glucose and free fatty acids. Unlike white adipose tissue, which primarily functions in energy storage, brown adipose tissue is specialized for heat production. This process occurs through a mechanism called non-shivering thermogenesis.

When activated, brown adipose tissue utilizes glucose and free fatty acids for energy, resulting in the generation of heat rather than storage of energy. The presence of uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1) in the mitochondria of brown adipocytes enables them to dissipate the proton gradient generated by the electron transport chain as heat, rather than using it to produce ATP. This enhanced metabolic activity increases energy expenditure and elevates the overall resting metabolic rate.

By promoting lipolysis— the breakdown of fat stores into free fatty acids—and utilizing these for energy, BAT effectively boosts metabolism. This contributes to improved energy balance, making it a vital component of body weight regulation and metabolic health.

Other choices, while related to metabolic processes, do not correctly capture the primary function of brown adipose tissue in this context. Storing excess energy refers more to white adipose tissue, producing more muscle tissue does not directly relate to brown adipose tissue,