Final answer:
Adipose is a type of connective tissue made up of cells called adipocytes, which store triglycerides (fat). It serves as insulation, organ protection, and hormone secretion. Although it lacks a dense extracellular matrix, it is considered a loose connective tissue.
Step-by-step explanation:
Adipose is indeed a type of connective tissue. This tissue is primarily made up of cells known as adipocytes, which are specialized in storing fat in the form of triglycerides. Adipose tissue not only stores energy but also serves as insulation for maintaining body temperature, protection for organs, and plays a role in hormone secretion, such as leptin and adiponectin. Despite lacking a dense extracellular matrix which is a common feature in many other connective tissues, adipose tissue is nonetheless categorized as a loose connective tissue, since the small amount of matrix it does have is loose and flexible, allowing for the fat cells to expand when needed.