Which hormone inhibits lipolysis?

The hormone that inhibits lipolysis is insulin.

Insulin plays a key role in the regulation of fat metabolism by inhibiting the breakdown of fat (lipolysis) in adipose tissue. When insulin levels are high, such as after a meal, the hormone promotes the storage of fat and prevents the release of fatty acids from adipocytes (fat cells). This action is in contrast to hormones like epinephrine, norepinephrine, and glucagon, which stimulate lipolysis.

One drug that inhibits lipolysis is niacin (also known as nicotinic acid or vitamin B3). Niacin is used in clinical settings to manage dyslipidemia because it reduces the levels of free fatty acids in the bloodstream by inhibiting lipolysis in adipose tissue. This reduction in free fatty acids leads to decreased production of very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol in the liver, which helps improve lipid profiles in patients with cardiovascular risk.

The hormone insulin does not stimulate lipolysis; in fact, it inhibits lipolysis. Insulin promotes the storage of fat in adipose tissue by inhibiting the breakdown of triglycerides into free fatty acids and glycerol, which are the products of lipolysis.

In contrast, hormones like epinephrine, norepinephrine, glucagon, and cortisol do stimulate lipolysis, leading to the release of fatty acids into the bloodstream.

Yes, ghrelin has been shown to inhibit lipolysis. Ghrelin, often referred to as the “hunger hormone,” is primarily known for stimulating appetite, but it also plays a role in fat metabolism. Ghrelin can inhibit the breakdown of fat in adipose tissue by activating specific signaling pathways that reduce the activity of enzymes involved in lipolysis, such as hormone-sensitive lipase (HSL). This effect helps to conserve energy stores, which aligns with ghrelin’s overall role in promoting energy balance and food intake.