Biochemical characterization of the layers of subcutaneous adipose tissue in the pig body.

During the formation of two layers of adipose tissue in the pig's body, starting from the 80th day after birth, samples were obtained by biopsy and analyzed for gross constituents and enzymes concerned with fatty-acid biosynthesis. These two layers differ in total lipid and water content and demonstrate more subtle differences amongst DNA, protein, collagen and sodium concentrations when comparisons are made in regard to age, sex, and breeding selection for low-fat animals. Acetyl-CoA carboxylase, malic enzyme and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase are more active in the inner layer, while 6-phosphogluconate and isocitrate dehydrogenases are distinguishable in the two layers of adipose tissue as well if age, sex, and breeding line are taken into consideration. The data form the basis for a more detailed study of lipogenic potentials in adipose tissue (next paper).