The insulin-sensitizing role of the fat derived hormone adiponectin

Leonie Heilbronn, S. R. Smith, E. Ravussin

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

72 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Adiponectin is an insulin-sensitizing hormone whose blood concentration is reduced in obesity and type 2 diabetes. Administration of recombinant adiponectin in rodents increases glucose uptake and increases fat oxidation in muscle, reduces fatty acid uptake and hepatic glucose production in liver, and improves whole body insulin resistance. The exact receptor and signaling systems are unknown, however, recent studies suggest adiponectin activates AMPK, a putative master metabolic regulator. Thus, excitement surrounds the potential for adiponectin, or a homologue of adiponectin, as pharamacotherapy agents for patients suffering from the metabolic syndrome and more particularly for individuals with insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)1411-1418
Number of pages8
JournalCurrent Pharmaceutical Design
Volume9
Issue number17
DOIs
Publication statusPublished or Issued - 2003
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Adiponectin
  • Fatty acid oxidation
  • Hepatic glucose production
  • Insulin sensitivity
  • Type 2 diabetes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Pharmacology
  • Drug Discovery

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