New Adipokines Linked to Obesity and Obesity-Related Diseases

Adipose tissue plays essential metabolic roles, not only serving as massive energy reservoir but also producing and releasing hormones and other biologically active molecules that regulate several metabolic activities. Adipocytes secrete a variety of factors, referred to as adipokines. Current research has identified over 50 adipocyte-secreted factors, and more are yet to be discovered. In obesity, increased production of pro-inflammatory adipokines and diminished synthesis of anti-inflammatory factors impacts on multiple functions such as appetite and energy balance, immunity, insulin sensitivity, angiogenesis, blood pressure and lipid metabolism. All are linked with higher risk for cardiovascular disease. Various adipocyte-released compounds profoundly affect insulin sensitivity and might potentially link obesity-related diseases, including atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes mellitus, hypertension, dyslipidaemia and insulin resistance. This review aims to present some of the recent topics of selected adipokine research that may be of particular importance.