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Updated: May 9, 2026

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Published on: May 4, 2021
Adiponectin in inflammatory and immune-mediated diseases.
1Department of Kinesiology and Nutrition, University of Illinois at Chicago, 1919 W Taylor Street MC517, Chicago, IL 60613, United States.
Adiponectin (APN) levels decrease in obesity but increase in inflammatory conditions, suggesting a complex role in immunity. This review explores mechanisms behind elevated APN in immune diseases and resolves conflicting findings.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Endocrinology
- Metabolic Disease
Background:
- Circulating adiponectin (APN) levels are typically reduced in obesity and metabolic disorders.
- Conversely, elevated APN is observed in inflammatory and immune-mediated diseases, contrasting with its role in metabolic disease.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of adiponectin (APN) in modulating inflammation and immunity.
- To explore mechanisms driving increased APN in inflammatory/immune diseases.
- To address contradictory findings regarding APN's immunomodulatory effects.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on adiponectin (APN) in inflammation and immunity.
- Analysis of factors influencing APN levels, including adipose tissue, hormonal, lifestyle, and microbiota.
- Examination of APN clearance and release mechanisms.
- Comparison of experimental models and recombinant APN types.
Main Results:
- Adiponectin (APN) exhibits a dual role, being downregulated in metabolic disease but upregulated in inflammatory/immune conditions.
- Factors such as adipose tissue changes, hormonal influences, lifestyle, and microbiota contribute to altered APN levels.
- Altered APN clearance and release from tissue reservoirs play a role in its systemic levels.
Conclusions:
- Adiponectin (APN) is a key modulator of inflammation and immunity with complex regulatory mechanisms.
- Understanding the context-dependent role of APN is crucial for resolving conflicting research findings.
- Further research is needed to elucidate APN's precise functions in diverse pathological states.
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