[Fatty tissue and bone]

Obesity is one of leading public health issues. Along with genetic predisposition it is the main risk factor for osteoarthritis and it also has an influence on rheumatoid arthritis. Fatty tissue acts on arthritic joints through a biomechanical and humoral mechanisms. The humoral mechanism is complex and the role of adipokines in the pathogenesis of arthritis is still not entirely clear. It is assumed that no adipokine can cause joint damage on its own, but only a dysfunction in a relationship between leptine and other adipokines can cause inflammatory-destructive processes. It remains unclear whether the involvement of adipokines is primary or secondary in the process ofjoint inflammation. The relative influence of visceral fatty tissue adipokines as compared to that of locally synthesised adipokines from various joint structures is unclear. Adipokines have a predominantly pro-inflammatory action and destroy the cartilage, although they can also have a protective action. A better knowledge of the role adipokines play not only allows for a better knowledge of pathophysiological processes in osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, but it also opens possibilities for development of new therapies.