Adipokines, that is factors secreted by adipose tissue, act through a network of autocrine, paracrine, and endocrine pathways to regulate several aspects of physiology, including glucose and lipid metabolism, neuroendocrine function, reproduction, and cardiovascular function.

What is adipokines production?

Adipokines (also called adipocytokines) are cell-signaling molecules (cytokines) produced by the adipose tissue that play functional roles in energy/metabolic status of the body, inflammation, obesity, etc. Notable examples of adipokines include leptin, adiponectin, resistin, interleukin-6, and tissue necrosis factor.

Can adipokines cause insulin resistance?

Inflammatory adipokines suppress insulin signaling resulting in insulin resistance. IRS1/2 phosphorylated on specific tyrosine residues activates the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)-AKT/protein kinase B (PKB) pathway and Ras-mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway.