The role of adiponectin in atherosclerosis: do lipids tip the scales?

Adiponectin may play a role in the pathophysiology of atherosclerosis, dyslipidemia and coronary artery disease. Thus, adiponectin administration diminishes atherosclerotic burden in experimental mouse models and high plasma adiponectin concentrations are associated with lower risk of myocardial infarction in men. Dyslipidemia is the strongest risk factor for coronary artery disease. Decreased adiponectin is associated with an atherogenic lipid profile of low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and elevated triglycerides. However, little attention has been paid to this phenomenon to date. It is known that adiponectin is an important regulator of hepatic and muscle fatty acid oxidation. Two recent human studies suggest that adiponectin may influence activity and/or expression of hepatic lipase and lipoprotein lipase. These two plasma enzymes directly regulate concentrations of circulating lipoproteins. Future research may reveal the role of adiponectins in lipid metabolism, especially in affecting plasma high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels. Adiponectin administration and regulation of the pathways controlling its production may prove beneficial as a therapeutic strategy in atherogenic dyslipidemia and atherosclerosis.