Biological and pathophysiological role of adiponectin

Abstract

Adipose tissue is now recognized as an important endocrine organ that secretes numerous protein hormones, including leptin, adiponectin, and resistin. Adiponectin is a hormone that is produced by white adipose tissue. Adiponectin has been isolated independently by several groups of scientists. In humans, this protein is encoded by the ADIPOQ gene. Adiponectin receptors are widely distributed in many organs and tissues including liver, heart, pancreas, kidneys, muscles and many other cell types. A serum concentration of adipocin correlates with body mass index (BMI). Decreased level of adiponectin leads to obesity, the development of gestational complications in pregnant women, as well as a high risk of diabetes mellitus development and atherosclerosis. A high concentration of this hormone has anti-inflammatory, antiatherogenic, antiproliferative and cancer-defense mechanisms. Adiponectin strongly suppresses hepatic gluconeogenesis by inhibiting genes involved in glucose production. Obese people have lower blood levels of adiponectin than normal weight individuals. Adiponectin’s anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic properties result in protection of the blood vessels, heart, lungs, and colon. Adiponectin, an abundant adipocyte-secreted factor with a wide-range of biological activities, improves insulin sensitivity in insulin target tissues, modulates inflammatory responses, and plays a crucial role in the regulation of energy metabolism.