Title:Adiponectin: An Endothelium-Derived Vasoprotective Factor?
Volume: 14
Issue: 2
Author(s): Lei Shen, Ian M. Evans, Domingos Souza, Mats Dreifaldt, Michael R. Dashwood and Mohamed-Ali Vidya
Affiliation:
Keywords:
Adiponectin, coronary artery bypass grafting, endothelium, perivascular adipose tissue.
Abstract: Adipose tissue (AT) is now widely accepted as a key secretary organ, as well as an energy
storage depot. It secretes a series of cytokines, hormones and bioactive molecules: adipokines. Adiponectin is an abundant
systemic adipokine that uniquely is reduced in obesity and increases on weight loss, is anti-inflammatory, promotes
insulin sensitivity and affords cardiometabolic protection. It was considered a true adipokine, in that it is exclusively
generated by the adipocytes of the adipose tissue. However, recent evidence points to it being secreted by a range of other
organs. This review summarizes the non-adipose sources of adiponectin especially that derived from the endothelium, its
vasoprotective role and intracellular signalling pathways. Endothelium derived adiponectin may potentially be a new
target for clinical intervention in cardiovascular disease.
