Adiponectin is a protein produced exclusively by the adipose tissue. It is a part of the adipokines family as well as leptin and resistin. Through its receptors adipo R1 and R2 or via PPARá it has an insulin
sensitivity effect but also anti atherogen, anti diabetes, and anti-inflammatory effects. It also induces beta-oxidation of the fat acids at the liver and skeletal muscles. The value of plasma adiponectin decreases in obese patients, being inversely correlated with the number of metabolic syndrome criteria.
Similar observations of hypoadiponectinemia are seen in patients with endocrine obesity, like Cushing syndrome. Drugs as thiazolidindiones or rimonabant act through adiponectin. Overall,
adiponectin is a part of a complex picture consisting in nonconventional markers of insulin resistance or cardiovascular risk.