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Updated: Jul 6, 2026
07:46
Isolation, Characterization, and Purification of Macrophages from Tissues Affected by Obesity-related Inflammation
Published on: April 3, 2017
The metabolic syndrome and inflammation
Julie P Sutherland1, Benjamin McKinley, Robert H Eckel
1University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, Denver, Colorado.
Metabolic Syndrome and Related Disorders
|March 29, 2008
Summary
Metabolic syndrome (MS) involves insulin resistance and cardiovascular risks. This review explores its link to inflammation and treatments for preventing heart disease.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Endocrinology
- Metabolic Disorders
Background:
- Metabolic syndrome (MS) is a complex condition characterized by a cluster of cardiovascular risk factors, including insulin resistance, hyperglycemia, hypertension, hypertriglyceridemia, low HDL cholesterol, and obesity.
- Insulin resistance is a central feature of MS, influencing the development of associated metabolic and cardiovascular complications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the association between metabolic syndrome (MS) and the proinflammatory state.
- To discuss treatment strategies for preventing coronary heart disease (CHD) in individuals with MS.
Main Methods:
- Review of literature focusing on the relationship between MS, inflammation, and cardiovascular risk.
- Analysis of inflammatory markers (e.g., hs-CRP, TNF-alpha, IL-6) and prothrombotic factors (e.g., PAI-1) in the context of MS.
- Examination of treatment modalities, including lifestyle modifications and pharmacological therapies.
Main Results:
- Chronic inflammation is frequently observed in individuals with MS, with elevated levels of inflammatory markers like hs-CRP and IL-6.
- Proinflammatory cytokines may be released by adipose tissue, contributing to hepatic CRP production.
- Prothrombotic factors such as PAI-1 are increased in MS, while adiponectin levels are decreased.
- Obesity, a common component of MS, is associated with reduced adiponectin levels.
Conclusions:
- Metabolic syndrome is strongly linked to a proinflammatory and prothrombotic state.
- Effective management of MS, incorporating lifestyle changes (weight loss, exercise) and pharmacotherapy, is crucial for preventing CHD and type 2 diabetes.
- Certain medications used in MS treatment may offer beneficial clinical and anti-inflammatory effects.
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