adipokineket

Adipokines are a group of hormones secreted by adipose tissue, or body fat. These signaling proteins play a crucial role in regulating various physiological processes, including metabolism, inflammation, and energy balance. Adipokines can act in an endocrine, paracrine, or autocrine manner, influencing distant organs, surrounding tissues, or the adipocytes themselves.

Examples of well-studied adipokines include leptin, adiponectin, resistin, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α). Leptin is primarily known for its role in appetite regulation and energy expenditure, signaling satiety to the brain. Adiponectin, on the other hand, is generally considered to have beneficial effects, enhancing insulin sensitivity and exerting anti-inflammatory and anti-atherogenic properties. Resistin has been linked to insulin resistance, although its precise role is still under investigation. TNF-α, a pro-inflammatory cytokine, is also produced by adipose tissue and can contribute to insulin resistance.

The production and secretion of adipokines are influenced by factors such as the amount of adipose tissue, nutritional status, inflammation, and hormonal signals. Dysregulation of adipokine levels is associated with various metabolic disorders, including obesity, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Research into adipokines continues to explore their complex interactions and potential therapeutic applications for metabolic diseases.