Relationship between adiponectin, obesity and insulin resistance

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Cardiovascular Medicine
• Metabolic Syndrome

Background:

• Obesity and overweight are significant risk factors for atherosclerotic disease comorbidities.
• Adipose tissue functions as an endocrine organ, secreting adipokines like adiponectin.
• Adiponectin plays a role in regulating insulin resistance and atherosclerosis development.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review the anti-atherogenic effects of adiponectin.
• To evaluate adiponectin's ability to mimic metabolic and vascular actions of insulin.
• To assess adiponectin's influence on endothelial function.

Main Methods:

• A qualitative, exploratory literature review was conducted.
• Databases searched include PubMed, Portal Capes, and Scielo.
• Keywords used were "adiponectin", "obesity", "insulin resistance", "anti-inflammatory", "therapeutic strategies", and "future prospects".

Main Results:

• Adiponectin exhibits anti-atherogenic properties and exerts anti-inflammatory effects on the vascular wall.
• It modulates vascular intracellular signaling and provides indirect antioxidant effects on the myocardium.
• Paradoxically, elevated adiponectin levels are linked to worse heart failure prognosis, though mechanisms are unclear.

Conclusions:

• The clinical significance of adiponectin levels for cardiovascular disease risk stratification is uncertain.
• Lifestyle changes and certain drug treatments can increase adiponectin levels.
• Increased adiponectin is associated with reduced insulin resistance and improved endothelial function.