Adipokines in obesity and metabolic diseases

Adipose tissue secretes many adipokines that regulate important
physiological functions. Growing studies have highlighted
that these bioactive molecules may contribute to the development
of metabolic and cardiovascular diseases. Adipokines exert systemic
metabolic effects and independent activity on numerous
cells of the cardiovascular system, including cardiomyocytes and
vascular cell walls. Adiponectin shows anti-inflammatory and
anti-atherosclerotic activity on blood vessels. Conversely, resistin
is endowed with pro-inflammatory effects and stimulates the proliferation
of smooth muscle cells, thus promoting the development
of atherosclerotic plaque. Leptin plays an important role in cardiac
remodeling and blood pressure regulation through the activation
of the sympathetic system. Obesity is a pathological condition
associated with hypertrophy of white adipose tissue, which stimulates
the production of pro-inflammatory adipokines while, it
reduces the production of anti-inflammatory adipokines. The delicate
balance among the production of pro-and anti-inflammatory
molecules generated by adipose tissue affects, not only the development
of metabolic complications associated with obesity, but
also the onset and progression of atherosclerosis. Therefore,
adipokines may be regarded as potential agents of clinical interest
in the treatment of a wide range of metabolic disorders and as
potential biomarkers useful for early detection of metabolic, cardiovascular
and inflammatory diseases.