Topics:
Animal Physiology, Animal Refresher
Major Site of Lipogenesis in Ruminants
The major site of lipogenesis in ruminants is-
- Liver
- Kidney
- Adipose tissue — Correct Answer
- None
Explanation:
Correct Answer: Adipose tissue
In ruminants, the major site of lipogenesis (de novo fat synthesis) is the adipose tissue. This is unlike non-ruminants (pig, human) where the liver is the primary lipogenic organ.
Why Adipose Tissue in Ruminants?
- Ruminants absorb VFAs (mainly acetate) rather than glucose from the GIT
- Acetate serves as the primary lipogenic substrate and can be directly activated to Acetyl-CoA in adipose tissue
- Ruminant liver has low ATP-citrate lyase activity → reduced hepatic lipogenesis capacity
Species Comparison for Lipogenesis Sites
- Ruminants: Adipose tissue (primary) + Mammary gland (milk fat synthesis)
- Non-ruminants (pig, human): Liver (primary) then adipose tissue
- Birds: Liver (primary lipogenic organ)
Key Metabolic Locations
- Krebs cycle + β-oxidation of fatty acids: Mitochondria
- Fatty acid synthesis (lipogenesis): Cytoplasm (cytosol)
- Cholesterol synthesis: Smooth ER / Cytoplasm
- Glycolysis: Cytoplasm
📚 About this Topic — Animal Physiology
This multiple choice question is from Animal Physiology, Animal Refresher. It has 4 options with a detailed explanation of the correct answer. Practice more MCQs from Animal Physiology to strengthen your preparation.
