Fat cells below the skin, known as adipocytes, can protect against infection They produce molecules called antimicrobial peptides that fend off bacteria Lack of antimicrobial peptides leaves people more prone to infections

By Madlen Davies for MailOnline

Published: 11:11 EST, 2 January 2015 | Updated: 16:58 EST, 2 January 2015

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Fat has been much maligned for promoting weight gain and raising cholesterol.

However, a new study has found fat is not all bad, helping people fight infections.

U.S. researchers made the surprising discovery that fat cells below the skin help protect against bacteria.

Professor Richard Gallo, of UC San Diego School of Medicine, uncovered the previously unknown role for fat cells known as adipocytes.

Originally posted here:
Fat below the skin 'helps protect against bacterial infections and blood poisoning'

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