- Brown adipose tissue (BAT) dissipates energy stored in triglycerides as heat via the uncoupling protein UCP1.- It has recently been discovered that BAT is present and active in adults. BAT is situated predominantly around the aorta and in the supraclavicular area.- BAT volume and activity are lower in individuals who are obese. This suggests that BAT significantly contributes to total energy expenditure. .- Several pathological conditions that are accompanied by activation of BAT, such as hyperthyroidism and phaeochromocytoma, result in the increased expenditure of energy and in weight loss.- Various ways in which BAT can be manipulated to increase the expenditure of energy have been identified, e.g. exposure to cold, the use of so-called uncoupling agents or the administration of the hormone irisin.- The activation of BAT could potentially be used to induce weight loss.