adiponectinu

Adiponectin, also known as adiponectin in some languages, is a protein hormone produced predominantly by adipose tissue. In humans, the adiponectin gene ADIPOQ is located on chromosome 3 and encodes the adiponectin protein. Circulating adiponectin exists in multiple forms, including low-, middle-, and high-molecular-weight multimers, as well as a proteolytic fragment called globular adiponectin. The full-length protein circulates at relatively high concentrations and exerts biological effects in a range of tissues.

Adiponectin mediates its effects primarily through receptors AdipoR1 and AdipoR2, expressed in skeletal muscle and liver, with high-molecular-weight forms also interacting with T-cadherin. It activates signaling pathways including AMPK and PPAR-α, promoting glucose uptake and fatty acid oxidation while inhibiting hepatic gluconeogenesis.

Physiological roles include enhancement of insulin sensitivity, anti-inflammatory actions, and anti-atherogenic effects. Clinically, adiponectin levels are typically lower in obesity, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic syndrome, whereas higher levels are associated with improved insulin sensitivity and reduced cardiovascular risk. Lifestyle factors such as weight loss and regular exercise tend to raise adiponectin levels, and certain medications can increase them.

Measurement and research: adiponectin is measured in plasma or serum and is widely studied as a biomarker of metabolic health and as a potential therapeutic target for metabolic disorders.