Weight reduction increases plasma levels of an adipose-derived anti-inflammatory protein, adiponectin

Adiponectin rescues synaptic plasticity in the dentate gyrus of a mouse model of Fragile X Syndrome

Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is the most common inherited cause of intellectual disability and is the leading known single-gene cause of autism spectrum disorder. Patients with FXS display varied behavioural deficits that include mild to severe cognitive impairments in addition to mood disorders. Currently, there is no cure for this condition; however, there is an emerging focus on therapies that inhibit mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR)-dependent protein synthesis owing to the clinical effectiveness of metformin for alleviating some behavioural symptoms in FXS. Adiponectin (APN) is a neurohormone that is released by adipocytes and provides an alternative means to inhibit mTOR activation in the brain. In these studies, we show that Fmr1 knockout mice, like patients with FXS, show reduced levels of circulating APN and that both long-term potentiation (LTP) and long-term depression (LTD) in the dentate gyrus (DG) are impaired. Brief (20 min) incubation of hippocampal slices in APN (50 nM) was able to rescue both LTP and LTD in the DG and increased both the surface expression and phosphorylation of GluA1 receptors. These results provide evidence for reduced APN levels in FXS playing a role in decreasing bidirectional synaptic plasticity and show that therapies which enhance APN levels may have therapeutic potential for this and related conditions.This article is part of a discussion meeting issue 'Long-term potentiation: 50 years on'.

Association of Obesity and Severe Asthma in Adults

The incidence of obesity and asthma continues to enhance, significantly impacting global public health. Adipose tissue is an organ that secretes hormones and cytokines, causes meta-inflammation, and contributes to the intensification of bronchial hyperreactivity, oxidative stress, and consequently affects the different phenotypes of asthma in obese people. As body weight increases, the risk of severe asthma increases, as well as more frequent exacerbations requiring the use of glucocorticoids and hospitalization, which consequently leads to a deterioration of the quality of life. This review discusses the relationship between obesity and severe asthma, the underlying molecular mechanisms, changes in respiratory function tests in obese people, its impact on the occurrence of comorbidities, and consequently, a different response to conventional asthma treatment. The article also reviews research on possible future therapies for severe asthma. The manuscript is a narrative review of clinical trials in severe asthma and comorbid obesity. The articles were found in the PubMed database using the keywords asthma and obesity. Studies on severe asthma were then selected for inclusion in the article. The sections: 'The classification connected with asthma and obesity', 'Obesity-related changes in pulmonary functional tests', and 'Obesity and inflammation', include studies on subjects without asthma or non-severe asthma, which, according to the authors, familiarize the reader with the pathophysiology of obesity-related asthma.

Appetite- and Weight-Regulating Neuroendocrine Circuitry in Hypothalamic Obesity

Since hypothalamic obesity (HyOb) was first described over 120 years ago by Joseph Babinski and Alfred Fröhlich, advances in molecular genetic laboratory techniques have allowed us to elucidate various components of the intricate neurocircuitry governing appetite and weight regulation connecting the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, brainstem, adipose tissue, pancreas, and gastrointestinal tract. On a background of an increasing prevalence of population-level common obesity, the number of survivors of congenital (eg, septo-optic dysplasia, Prader-Willi syndrome) and acquired (eg, central nervous system tumors) hypothalamic disorders is increasing, thanks to earlier diagnosis and management as well as better oncological therapies. Although to date the discovery of several appetite-regulating peptides has led to the development of a range of targeted molecular therapies for monogenic obesity syndromes, outside of these disorders these discoveries have not translated into the development of efficacious treatments for other forms of HyOb. This review aims to summarize our current understanding of the neuroendocrine physiology of appetite and weight regulation, and explore our current understanding of the pathophysiology of HyOb.

Serum Adiponectin and Leptin Among Ghanaian Migrants in Amsterdam and Their Compatriots in Rural and Urban Ghana: The RODAM Study

Background

The rapidly rising cardiometabolic disease (CMD) burden in urbanizing sub-Saharan African populations and among sub-Saharan African migrants in Europe likely affects serum adiponectin and leptin levels, but this has not yet been quantified.

Objectives

To compare the serum levels of adiponectin and leptin among migrant, and non-migrant (urban and rural) populations of Ghanaian descent.

Methods

Cross-sectional analysis of serum leptin and adiponectin in the multi-centre Research on Obesity and Diabetes among African Migrants (RODAM) study. Logistic-regression models were used to examine the association between these adipocyte-derived hormones after stratification (sex, geographic area) and adjustments for potential confounders.

Results

A total of 2518 Ghanaians were included. Rural participants had the highest serum adiponectin and lowest leptin levels compared to Amsterdam and urban Ghanaians (P < .001). In fully adjusted models, participants living in urban Ghana had significantly higher odds of hyperleptinemia compared to rural participants (women-odds ratio 2.88; 95% CI, 1.12-7.38, P = .028 and men 43.52, 95% CI, 4.84-391.25, P < .001). Urban Ghanaian men also had higher odds of elevated leptin: adiponectin ratio (6.29, 95% CI, 1.43-27.62, P = .015). The odds of hyperleptinemia were only higher in Amsterdam Ghanaian men (10.56; 95% CI, 1.11-100.85, P = .041), but not in women (0.85; 95% CI, 0.30-2.41, P = .759). There was no significant association between hypoadiponectinemia and geographical location in both sexes.

Conclusion

Urbanization is associated with serum adiponectin and leptin levels after adjusting for confounding covariates in sub-Saharan Africans. These findings serve as a backdrop for further research on the role adipokines play in CMD epidemiology among Africans.

Adiponectin-leptin ratio for the early detection of lean non-alcoholic fatty liver disease independent of insulin resistance

BACKGROUND

Lean Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) shares a similar disease burden to those of their overweight counterparts and should be detected early. We hypothesized that the adiponectin-leptin ratio (AL ratio) could be a good marker for early detection of lean NAFLD independent of insulin resistance.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 575 adults without diabetes were enrolled in a community-based study. The subjects were stratified into the lean controls, lean NAFLD, simple overweight/obesity and overweight/obesity NAFLD groups according to body mass index (BMI) and ultrasonographic fatty liver indicators. Serum adiponectin and leptin levels were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to estimate the odds ratio of having NAFLD in relation to the tertiles of serum AL concentration after adjustment. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analyses were applied to evaluate the diagnostic performance of the AL ratio for NAFLD.

RESULTS

The mean age of the participants was 42.8 ± 11.5 years. Comparing with the lean controls, the odds of having lean NAFLD for the highest versus the lowest tertile of AL ratio was 0.28(95%CI: 0.12-0.69) after adjustment. Putting AL ratio, BMI, triglyceride, AST/ALT ratio to the diagnosis performance of NAFLD, the ROC was 0.85 (95% CI: 0.82-0.88), 0.83 (95% CI 0.78-0.87) and 0.86 (95% CI 081-0.91) for all NAFLD, NAFLD in women and NAFLD in men, respectively. (p < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

The study revealed that the AL ratio could be a good biomarker to early distinguish lean NAFLD patients from lean controls independent of insulin resistance. [AQ3]Key messagesThe prevalence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) increases globally and is related to liver diseases and metabolic dysfunctions. Lean subset of NAFLD shares a similar disease burden to those of their overweight counterparts and should be detected early.Adiponectin-leptin ratio were associated with the severity of steatosis and was a predictor of obese NAFLD better than each single adipokine. To date, there is no investigation that explores specifically for the relationship between lean NAFLD and AL ratio.Our study found that adiponectin-leptin ratio is a sole independent marker regardless of insulin resistance in lean NAFLD. Having lean NAFLD for the highest versus the lowest tertile of adiponectin-leptin ratio was 0.28(95%CI: 0.12-0.69) after adjustment of age, sex, current smoking, exercise habits, HOMA-IR and AST/ALT. ROC for the NAFLD performance is good for the early detection (0.85; 95% CI: 0.82-0.88). Further rigorous investigation is necessary and should be promptly performed.

Differences in the absolute muscle strength and power of children and adolescents with overweight or obesity: a systematic review

This study aimed to describe absolute muscle strength and power in children and adolescents with obesity, overweight and normal weight, and the assessment tests and tools used. We retrieved observational studies from MEDLINE (PubMed), TripDataBase, Epistemonikos, EBSCO essentials, NICE, SCOPUS, and LILACs up to February 2023. In addition, we recovered data from studies with at least three comparison groups (obesity, overweight, normal weight) and with a description of the absolute muscle strength and power and the assessment tests and instruments used. The methodologic quality of the studies was assessed with the Joanna Briggs checklist, and the review was carried out using the PRISMA 2020 methodology. Eleven studies with 13,451 participants from 6 to 18 years of age were once included, finding that the absolute muscle strength of their upper extremities was greater when they were overweight or obese; however, in the same groups, absolute muscle strength was lower when they carried their body weight. In addition, lower limb absolute muscle strength was significantly lower in obese participants than in normal weight, regardless of age and gender. The most used tools to measure the absolute muscle strength of the upper limbs were the grip dynamometers and push-up exercises. In contrast, different jump tests were used to measure the power of the lower limbs. There are great differences in muscle strength and power between overweight or obese children and adolescents and those with normal weight. Therefore, it is recommended to use validated tests, preferably that assess strength through the load of the patient's body weight, either of the upper or lower limbs, for greater evaluation objectivity that facilitates the management of these children and adolescents.

The Effects of Ketogenic Diet on Insulin Sensitivity and Weight Loss, Which Came First: The Chicken or the Egg?

The ketogenic diet (KD) is, nowadays, considered an interesting nutritional approach for weight loss and improvement in insulin resistance. Nevertheless, most of the studies available in the literature do not allow a clear distinction between its effects on insulin sensitivity per se, and the effects of weight loss induced by KDs on insulin sensitivity. In this review, we discuss the scientific evidence on the direct and weight loss mediated effects of KDs on glycemic status in humans, describing the KD's biochemical background and the underlying mechanisms.

Regulatory mechanisms of macrophage polarization in adipose tissue

In adipose tissue, macrophages are the most abundant immune cells with high heterogeneity and plasticity. Depending on environmental cues and molecular mediators, adipose tissue macrophages (ATMs) can be polarized into pro- or anti-inflammatory cells. In the state of obesity, ATMs switch from the M2 polarized state to the M1 state, which contributes to chronic inflammation, thereby promoting the pathogenic progression of obesity and other metabolic diseases. Recent studies show that multiple ATM subpopulations cluster separately from the M1 or M2 polarized state. Various factors are related to ATM polarization, including cytokines, hormones, metabolites and transcription factors. Here, we discuss our current understanding of the potential regulatory mechanisms underlying ATM polarization induced by autocrine and paracrine factors. A better understanding of how ATMs polarize may provide new therapeutic strategies for obesity-related diseases.

Adiponectin reverses β-Cell damage and impaired insulin secretion induced by obesity

Obesity significantly decreases life expectancy and increases the incidence of age-related dysfunctions, including β-cell dysregulation leading to inadequate insulin secretion. Here, we show that diluted plasma from obese human donors acutely impairs β-cell integrity and insulin secretion relative to plasma from lean subjects. Similar results were observed with diluted sera from obese rats fed ad libitum, when compared to sera from lean, calorically restricted, animals. The damaging effects of obese circulating factors on β-cells occurs in the absence of nutrient overload, and mechanistically involves mitochondrial dysfunction, limiting glucose-supported oxidative phosphorylation and ATP production. We demonstrate that increased levels of adiponectin, as found in lean plasma, are the protective characteristic preserving β-cell function; indeed, sera from adiponectin knockout mice limits β-cell metabolic fluxes relative to controls. Furthermore, oxidative phosphorylation and glucose-sensitive insulin secretion, which are completely abrogated in the absence of this hormone, are restored by the presence of adiponectin alone, surprisingly even in the absence of other serological components, for both the insulin-secreting INS1 cell line and primary islets. The addition of adiponectin to cells treated with plasma from obese donors completely restored β-cell functional integrity, indicating the lack of this hormone was causative of the dysfunction. Overall, our results demonstrate that low circulating adiponectin is a key damaging element for β-cells, and suggest strong therapeutic potential for the modulation of the adiponectin signaling pathway in the prevention of age-related β-cell dysfunction.

The anti-inflammatory effects of aerobic exercise training in patients with type 2 diabetes: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a low-grade, chronic inflammatory disease, associated with increased cardiovascular risk. The purpose of this systematic review/ meta-analysis was to evaluate the effects of aerobic exercise training (AET) on inflammatory markers in T2DM patients.

METHODS

The literature search was conducted utilizing PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and the Cochrane Library from their inception up to April 2022. We screened only for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) investigating the effects of AET on C-reactive protein (CRP) and adipokines: adiponectin, resistin, interleukin 6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-a), along with changes in anthropometric indices and glycemic control in adult T2DM patients. Pooled post-exercise weighted mean differences (WMDs) with 95% Confidence Intervals (CIs) were calculated for all outcomes of interest between exercise-treated patients and controls.

RESULTS

Twenty-six RCTs involving 1239 T2DM patients were retrieved from the databases for meta-analysis. The cumulative results showed that post-AET inflammatory markers were lower in exercise-treated patients compared to controls regarding CRP (mg/L): WMD: -0.91; 95%CIs: -1.43, -0.40; p < 0.001 resistin (mg/ml): (WMD: -2.08; 95%CIs: -3.32, -0.84; p < 0.001); TNF-a (pg/ml): (WMD: -2.70; 95%CIs: -4.26, -1.14; p < 0.001), and IL-6 (pg/ml): (WMD: -1.05; 95%CIs: -1.68, -0.43; p < 0.001). Those effects were accompanied by significant amelioration of fasting glucose (mg/dl) (WMD: -13.02; 95%CIs: -25.39, -0.66; p = 0.04), HbA1c (%) (WMD: -0.51; 95%CIs: -0.73, -0.28, p < 0.001), and fat mass (%) (WMD: -3.14; 95%CI: -4.71, -1.58; p < 0.001). Our meta-analysis demonstrated less-consistent results for adiponectin (μg/ml), (WMD: 1.00; 95%CI: -0.12, 2.12; p = 0.08) and body-mass index (kg/m²) (WMD: -1.34; 95%CI: -2.76, 0.08; p = 0.06) tending to differ between AET and control group.

CONCLUSIONS

AET can significantly reduce the inflammatory burden in T2DM patients. by ameliorating the circulating levels of CRP, resistin, TNF-a and IL-6, even without accompanied significant weight-loss. The clinical impact of those anti-inflammatory effects of AET needs to be determined.

Protection of diabetes in aortic abdominal aneurysm: Are antidiabetics the real effectors?

Aortic aneurysms, including abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs), is the second most prevalent aortic disease and represents an important cause of death worldwide. AAA is a permanent dilation of the aorta on its infrarenal portion, pathologically associated with oxidative stress, proteolysis, vascular smooth muscle cell loss, immune-inflammation, and extracellular matrix remodeling and degradation. Most epidemiological studies have shown a potential protective role of diabetes mellitus (DM) on the prevalence and incidence of AAA. The effect of DM on AAA might be explained mainly by two factors: hyperglycemia [or other DM-related factors such as insulin resistance (IR)] and/or by the effect of prescribed DM drugs, which may have a direct or indirect effect on the formation and progression of AAAs. However, recent studies further support that the protective role of DM in AAA may be attributable to antidiabetic therapies (i.e.: metformin or SGLT-2 inhibitors). This review summarizes current literature on the relationship between DM and the incidence, progression, and rupture of AAAs, and discusses the potential cellular and molecular pathways that may be involved in its vascular effects. Besides, we provide a summary of current antidiabetic therapies which use could be beneficial for AAA.

One-week sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L.) grain consumption is insufficient to increase adiponectin levels in prediabetic adults

Objective. Adiponectin is an internally produced bioactive compound with a protective role against the insulin resistance-related diseases. Finding an adiponectin modifier can play a beneficial role in preventing the progression of the diseases, particularly in the prediabetic patients, as a high-risk population. This study was undertaken to examine the effect of dietary sorghum grain for a week on the plasma adiponectin levels in prediabetic patients. Methods. The study involved 26 (13+13) participants in both control and intervention groups. The control group maintained their habitual diet of white rice, while the intervention group replaced their habitual diet of white rice with sorghum grain for seven consecutive days. In all participants, the adiponectin concentration was measured before and after the intervention period. Results. Most study subjects had central obesity and dyslipidemia. Adiponectin levels after the intervention period decreased from the baseline in the control and sorghum groups including in all BMI groups. The change of decreasing adiponectin level was greater in the control than the sorghum group and in line with greater BMI in the sorghum group, but statistically insignificant. No significant difference in adiponectin concentrations was found among BMI groups. Conclusion. Sorghum grain consumption for a week is insufficient to increase adiponectin levels in the prediabetic patients. Insulin resistance, central obesity, and dyslipidemia may be the confounding variables that alter the favorable effect of sorghum on adiponectin. Longer sorghum consumption or other interventions may be needed to increase the adiponectin levels in people under these conditions.

Effects of daily functional acorn cake consumption on insulin resistance in individuals with obesity or overweight and the metabolic syndrome: a placebo-controlled randomised clinical trial

The metabolic syndrome is a multi-factorial condition and functional foods need more investigation as novel adjunct treatments for this group. This study aimed to determine the effects of daily consumption of a functional acorn cake in conjunction with energy restriction (119.50 kJ) on individuals with overweight or obesity and the metabolic syndrome. In this randomised double-blinded study, eighty-four participants were randomly allocated to either an energy-restricted diet plus two servings (2 × 30 g)/d of functional acorn cake (a cake made of acorn for the intervention group) (FC) (n 42) or an energy-restricted diet plus placebo cake (PC) (n 42). Body composition and biochemical parameters were measured before and after 10 weeks of intervention. Seventy-three participants completed this trial. No differences in loss of body weight, waist circumference, fat mass, fasting blood glucose and blood pressure were shown between two groups. Body weight decreased by 4·2 (sd 1·9) kg and 5·1 (sd 2·8) kg in PC and FC groups, respectively. Compared with PC, the consumption of FC resulted in a significant reduction in serum insulin (P = 0·02), homoeostasis model assessment for insulin resistance (P = 0·02), high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (P = 0·04) and a significant increase in adiponectin concentration (P = 0·04). Although lipid metabolism did not differ among groups, total cholesterol and HDL-cholesterol improved non-significantly in the FC group. Functional acorn cake as an adjunct to energy restriction could possibly improve insulin resistance in individuals with obesity. Further research is needed to elucidate whether functional acorn cake can be used as a preventive strategy for the metabolic syndrome in individuals with obesity.

Associations of Obesity with Linear Growth and Puberty

BACKGROUND

The prevalence of obesity in childhood has increased dramatically in recent decades with increased risk of developing cardiometabolic and other comorbidities. Childhood adiposity may also influence processes of growth and puberty.

SUMMARY

Growth patterns of obesity during childhood have been shown to be associated with increased linear growth in early childhood, leading to accelerated epiphyseal growth plate (EGP) maturation. Several hormones secreted by the adipose tissue may affect linear growth in the context of obesity, both via the growth hormone IGF-1 axis and via a direct effect on the EGP. The observation that children with obesity tend to mature earlier than lean children has led to the assumption that the degree of body fatness may trigger the neuroendocrine events that lead to pubertal onset. The most probable link between obesity and puberty is leptin and its interaction with the kisspeptin system, which is an important regulator of puberty. However, peripheral action of adipose tissue could also be involved in changes in the onset of puberty. In addition, nutritional factors, epigenetics, and endocrine-disrupting chemicals are potential mediators linking pubertal onset to obesity. In this review, we focused on interactions of obesity with linear growth and pubertal processes, based on basic research and clinical data in humans.

KEY MESSAGE

Children with obesity are subject to accelerated linear growth with risk of impaired adult height and early puberty, with its psychological consequences. The data highlight another important objective in combatting childhood obesity, for the prevention of abnormal growth and pubertal patterns.

The Role of Obesity, Inflammation and Sphingolipids in the Development of an Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a local dilatation of the vessel equal to or exceeding 3 cm. It is a disease with a long preclinical period commonly without any symptoms in its initial stage. Undiagnosed for years, aneurysm often leads to death due to vessel rupture. The basis of AAA pathogenesis is inflammation, which is often associated with the excess of adipose tissue, especially perivascular adipose tissue, which synthesizes adipocytokines that exert a significant influence on the formation of aneurysms. Pro-inflammatory cytokines such as resistin, leptin, and TNFα have been shown to induce changes leading to the formation of aneurysms, while adiponectin is the only known compound that is secreted by adipose tissue and limits the development of aneurysms. However, in obesity, adiponectin levels decline. Moreover, inflammation is associated with an increase in the amount of macrophages infiltrating adipose tissue, which are the source of matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) involved in the degradation of the extracellular matrix, which are an important factor in the formation of aneurysms. In addition, an excess of body fat is associated with altered sphingolipid metabolism. It has been shown that among sphingolipids, there are compounds that play an opposite role in the cell: ceramide is a pro-apoptotic compound that mediates the development of inflammation, while sphingosine-1-phosphate exerts pro-proliferative and anti-inflammatory effects. It has been shown that the increase in the level of ceramide is associated with a decrease in the concentration of adiponectin, an increase in the concentration of TNFα, MMP-9 and reactive oxygen species (which contribute to the apoptosis of vascular smooth muscle cell). The available data indicate a potential relationship between obesity, inflammation and disturbed sphingolipid metabolism with the formation of aneurysms; therefore, the aim of this study was to systematize the current knowledge on the role of these factors in the pathogenesis of abdominal aortic aneurysm.

Indapamide Increases IRS1 Expression and Modifies Adiponectin/NLRP3/PPARγ Crosstalk in Type 2 Diabetic Rats

The current study aimed to evaluate the anti-diabetic effects of canagliflozin (CANA) and indapamide (INDA) and their impacts as adiponectin modulators in experimentally induced type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). T2DM was associated with a significant rise in blood glucose level and HbA1C%, andreduced adiponectin and insulin secretions. Moreover, the malondialdehyde (MDA) contents in both the epididymal adipocytes and soleus muscle significantly escalated, while the total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and epididymal adipocyte Nrf2 expression significantly declined. Moreover, serum TNF-α, epididymal adipocyte’s NOD-like receptor protein 3, NLRP3, NF-κB and CD68 expressions markedly escalated, and serum IL-10 significantly declined. Furthermore, there was a significant escalation in PPARγ expression in epididymal adipocytes, with a significant reduction in soleus muscle’s expression of IRS1. CANA and INDA treatments markedly reduced blood glucose levels, increased adiponectin and insulin secretion, enhanced anti-oxidant defenses, and reduced oxidative burden, with marked anti-inflammatory impact. Interestingly, the impact of indapamide on DM indices and oxidative and inflammatory changes was comparable to that of canagliflozin. Nevertheless, indapamide had a superior effect compared to canagliflozin on HbA1c%, expression of IRS1 and reduction of NF-κB and CD68 expressions. INDA could be effective in regulating T2DM, with underlined anti-diabetic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. INDA increased IRS1 expression and modified adiponectin/NLRP3/PPARγ crosstalk. The impacts of INDA are comparable to those of the standard anti-diabetic drug CANA.

The ontogenies of endometrial and myometrial leptin and adiponectin receptors in pregnant rats: Their putative impact on uterine contractility

AIMS

Limited data are available about the functions and expressions of leptin and adiponectin receptors (LEPR, AdipoRs) in the uterus. Our aim was to investigate the effects of leptin and adiponectin on the contractions of intact and denuded nonpregnant and pregnant uteri, as well as the changes in mRNA and protein expressions of LEPR and AdipoRs during the gestational period.

MAIN METHODS

Contractions of nonpregnant and 5-, 15-, 18-, 20- or 22-day pregnant uterine rings were measured in an isolated organ bath system. The tissue contractions were stimulated with KCl and modified by cumulative concentrations of leptin or adiponectin. The mRNAs, protein expressions and localizations of LEPR and AdipoRs were determined by RT-PCR, Western blot and immunohistochemistry, respectively.

KEY FINDINGS

Both adipokines relaxed the nonpregnant intact uterus more effectively than the denuded myometrium. Leptin inhibited the contractions of endometrium-denuded uteri throughout pregnancy, while its action was weakened on intact uteri towards term. The changes in LEPR receptor densities were independent of the relaxing effect. Adiponectin inhibited contractions, but this effect ceased on pregnancy day 22, while a gradual decrease was detected towards term on denuded myometria. These modifications were in harmony with changes in the expressions of AdipoRs.

SIGNIFICANCE

Both leptin and adiponectin play a role in the relaxation of the pregnant uterus, but their efficacy significantly decreases towards the end of gestation. Their endometrial receptors may have a fine-tuning role in uterine contractions, predicting the importance of these adipokines in uterine contractions under altered adipokine level conditions.

Preventive Impact of Long-Term Ingestion of Chestnut Honey on Glucose Disorders and Neurodegeneration in Obese Mice

The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the impact of long-term honey ingestion on metabolic disorders and neurodegeneration in mice fed a high-fat diet (HFD). Three groups of mice were fed with a standard diet (STD), HFD or HFD supplemented with honey (HFD-H) for 16 weeks. Biochemical, histological, Western blotting, RT-PCR and Profiler PCR array were performed to assess metabolic parameters, peripheral and central insulin resistance and neurodegeneration. Daily honey intake prevented the HFD-induced glucose dysmetabolism. In fact, it reduced plasma fasting glucose, insulin and leptin concentrations and increased adiponectin levels. It improved glucose tolerance, insulin sensitivity and HOMA index without affecting plasma lipid concentration. HFD mice showed a significantly higher number of apoptotic nuclei in the superficial and deep cerebral cortex, upregulation of Fas-L, Bim and P27 (neuronal pro-apoptotic markers) and downregulation of Bcl-2 and BDNF (anti-apoptotic factors) in comparison with STD- and HFD-H mice, providing evidence for honey neuroprotective effects. PCR-array analysis showed that long-term honey intake increased the expression of genes involved in insulin sensitivity and decreased genes involved in neuroinflammation or lipogenesis, suggesting improvement of central insulin resistance. The expressions of p-AKT and p-GSK3 in HFD-H mice, which were decreased and increased, respectively, in HFD mouse brain, index of central insulin resistance, were similar to STD animals supporting the ability of regular honey intake to protect brain neurons from insulin resistance. In conclusion, the present results provide evidence for the beneficial preventative impact of regular honey ingestion on neuronal damage caused by HFD.

Diacerein versus adipoRon as adiponectin modulators in experimentally-induced end-stage type 2 diabetes mellitus in rats

The objective of the present study is to evaluate and compare the possible anti-diabetic effects of adipoRon and diacerein in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) rats. T2DM is marked by impaired oxidative, inflammatory and metabolic signaling. Indeed, T2DM progression is associated with elevated HbA1C%, low adiponectin and insulin concentration. Moreover, in this study epididymal adipose tissue and soleus muscle MDA contents significantly escalated, while serum TAC and epididymal adipose Nrf2 significantly declined. Nevertheless, serum TNF-α, epididymal NLRP3, NF-κB, PPARγ and CD68 expression rose significantly with a parallel significant reduction in serum IL-10 and soleus muscle expression of IRS1. Both adipoRon and diacerein significantly improved adiponectin and insulin secretion with augmentation of anti-oxidant defenses and diminution of oxidative burden, with obvious anti-inflammatory consequences (p < 0.05). Thus, adipoRon and diacerein positively modulated adiponectin expression with down-regulation of NF-κB/NLRP3/PPARγ expression with subsequent improvement in glycemic control, inflammatory and oxidative signaling.

Dietary Intervention during 9 Months with a Hypocaloric Diet, Interaction of the Genetic Variant of Adiponectin Gene rs822393 with Metabolic Parameters

Background and Aims

rs822393 (-4522C/T) genetic variant is associated with hypoadiponectinemia and other metabolic parameters. The aim of our investigation was to analyze the effects of a hypocaloric diet with Mediterranean dietary pattern during 9 months according to genetic variant rs822393 of ADIPOQ gene.

Methods and Results

A sample of 269 obese patients was enrolled. Anthropometric and serum parameters (lipid profile, insulin, homeostasis model assessment (HOMA-IR), glucose, C reactive protein, and adipokines) were determined, at basal time and after 3 and 9 months. All patients were genotyped in the rs822393. The genotype distribution was as follow; 176 patients (65.4%) CC, 83 patients CT (30.9%), and 10 patients TT (3.7%). After dietary intervention, the following parameters improved in non-T allele carriers; BMI, weight, fat mass, waist circumference, systolic blood pressure, insulin levels, HOMA-IR, leptin, total cholesterol, and LDL-cholesterol improved significantly. HDL-cholesterol (delta: 5.7 ± 1.1 mg/dl vs. 1.0 ± 0.8 mg/dl; p = 0.01), serum adiponectin (delta: 14.4 ± 2.0 ng/dl vs. 7.1 ± 3.1 ng/dl; p = 0.02), and adiponectin/leptin ratio (delta: 0.54 ± 0.1 vs. 0.22 ± 0.09 ng/dl; p = 0.03). Basal and postintervention HDL cholesterol, adiponectin levels, and adiponectin/leptin levels were lower in T-allele carriers than non-T Allele carriers.

Conclusion

T allele carriers showed lower levels of HDL-cholesterol, adiponectin, and adiponectin/leptin ratio than non-T allele carriers. A medium-term hypocaloric diet with a Mediterranean partner increased adiponectin levels, ratio adiponectin/leptin, and HDL-cholesterol in non-T allele carriers.

Serial Changes in Exercise Capacity, NT-proBNP, and Adiponectin in Patients with Acute Coronary Syndrome before and after Phase II Rehabilitation as well as at the 12-Month Follow-Up

Background. Acute coronary syndrome (ACS) causes pathophysiological changes in exercise capacity, N-terminal part of pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), and adiponectin that impact the course of coronary artery disease and clinical outcomes after cardiac rehabilitation (CR). However, the serial changes and the relationship between the changes in these parameters for a prolonged term remain uninvestigated. Methods. Eighty-one patients with ACS underwent a three- or four-week CR program after acute care and were followed up for 12 months. Exercise capacity on a cycle ergometer and blood levels of NT-proBNP and adiponectin were determined before and after CR as well as at the 12-month follow-up. Results. Exercise capacity increased from 100 watts (in median) before CR to 138 watts after CR and 150 watts at 12 months. The NT-proBNP level (526 pg/ml before CR) remained almost unchanged after CR (557 pg/ml) and then decreased at 12 months (173 pg/ml). The adiponectin level (14.5 µg/ml before CR) increased after CR (16.0 µg/ml) and at 12 months (17.2 µg/ml). There was no significant correlation among the changes in these parameters at each observation time point. Conclusion. During the observation period from before CR to the 12-month follow-up, exercise capacity, NT-proBNP, and adiponectin underwent significant changes; however, these changes were independent from each other and not correlated linearly, and they provide complementary information in clinical practice. Thus, all these parameters should be included and determined at different time points for a prolonged period of time.

Adipokines, Hepatokines and Myokines: Focus on Their Role and Molecular Mechanisms in Adipose Tissue Inflammation

Chronic low-grade inflammation in adipose tissue (AT) is a hallmark of obesity and contributes to various metabolic disorders, such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. Inflammation in ATs is characterized by macrophage infiltration and the activation of inflammatory pathways mediated by NF-κB, JNK, and NLRP3 inflammasomes. Adipokines, hepatokines and myokines - proteins secreted from AT, the liver and skeletal muscle play regulatory roles in AT inflammation via endocrine, paracrine, and autocrine pathways. For example, obesity is associated with elevated levels of pro-inflammatory adipokines (e.g., leptin, resistin, chemerin, progranulin, RBP4, WISP1, FABP4, PAI-1, Follistatin-like1, MCP-1, SPARC, SPARCL1, and SAA) and reduced levels of anti-inflammatory adipokines such as adiponectin, omentin, ZAG, SFRP5, CTRP3, vaspin, and IL-10. Moreover, some hepatokines (Fetuin A, DPP4, FGF21, GDF15, and MANF) and myokines (irisin, IL-6, and DEL-1) also play pro- or anti-inflammatory roles in AT inflammation. This review aims to provide an updated understanding of these organokines and their role in AT inflammation and related metabolic abnormalities. It serves to highlight the molecular mechanisms underlying the effects of these organokines and their clinical significance. Insights into the roles and mechanisms of these organokines could provide novel and potential therapeutic targets for obesity-induced inflammation.

Gender and Body Mass Index-Related Serum Level of Adipokines and Metabolic Syndrome Components in Bipolar Patients who received Lithium and Valproic Acid

Background: This is the study to assess alterations on adiponectin, leptin, and metabolic syndrome components in women and men bipolar disorder (BD) patients with normal weight and obesity who received valproic acid (VPA) and lithium (Li). Methods: Thirty-six women and 51 men were included. Commercial kits were used to determine all parameters. Metabolic syndrome components were determined according to the NCEP ATP III criteria. Results: Patients who received Li and VPA significantly differ in waist circumference (WC) and triglyceride (TG) levels (in women and men). Normal weight patients received both drugs, significant differences were considered in high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C), WC, and TG levels compared to healthy controls, but there were significant differences in TG, leptin, and adiponectin levels in obese patients who received VPA. There were significant negative and positive correlation between leptin and adiponectin and WC and TG in women and men BD patients treated with VPA and Li. There were significant positive correlation between leptin and adiponectin and WC and TG and significant negative correlation with HDL-C in normal weight BD patients treated with VPA and Li, respectively, while there was only a significant positive correlation between leptin and adiponectin, and TG in obese BD patients treated with VPA. Conclusions: It looks like that patients treated with both drugs for our suggested time may increase leptin and adiponectin levels. Correlation differences between leptin and adiponectin, and metabolic syndrome components may be important parameters in women, men, normal weight, and obese BD patients. Monitoring of body composition and adipokines may benefit in medical care of these patients.

Pediatric Obesity-Related Asthma: The Role of Nutrition and Nutrients in Prevention and Treatment

Childhood obesity rates have dramatically risen in numerous countries worldwide. Obesity is likely a factor in increased asthma risk, which is already one of the most widespread chronic respiratory pathologies. The pathogenic mechanism of asthma risk has still not yet been fully elucidated. Moreover, the role of obesity-related inflammation and pulmonary overreaction to environmental triggers, which ultimately result in asthma-like symptoms, and the importance of dietary characteristics is well recognized. Diet is an important adjustable element in the asthma development. Food-specific composition of the diet, in particular fat, sugar, and low-quality nutrients, is likely to promote the chronic inflammatory state seen in asthmatic patients with obesity. An unbalanced diet or supplementation as a way to control asthma more efficiently has been described. A personalized dietary intervention may improve respiratory symptoms and signs and therapeutic response. In this narrative review, we presented and discussed more recent literature on asthma associated with obesity among children, focusing on the risk of asthma among children with obesity, asthma as a result of obesity focusing on the role of adipose tissue as a mediator of systemic and local airway inflammation implicated in asthma regulation, and the impact of nutrition and nutrients in the development and treatment of asthma. Appropriate early nutritional intervention could possibly be critical in preventing and managing asthma associated with obesity among children.

Effect of flaxseed consumption on central obesity, serum lipids, and adiponectin level in overweight or obese women: A randomised controlled clinical trial

BACKGROUND

Flaxseed may be beneficial for the management of obesity due to its high content of alpha-linolenic acid, fibre, and lignans.

OBJECTIVE

We aim to evaluate the effect of flaxseed consumption on serum lipids, adiponectin, leptin, and anthropometric indices in overweight or obese women.

METHODS

This randomised controlled clinical trial involved 60 overweight or obese women. Participants were randomly allocated into two groups: (a) a balanced diet plus 30 g/day milled flaxseed (as treatment group) and (b) a balanced diet plus 30 g/day milled rice (as control group). Anthropometric indices, serum lipids, leptin, and adiponectin level were measured at baseline and at the end of intervention after 12 weeks.

RESULTS

After 12 weeks of intervention, there was significantly higher reduction rate in waist circumference (WC) and waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) (both P < .05) in the flaxseed-consuming group compared with the control group. Moreover, adiponectin level was significantly increased from (12.11 ± 7.1) to (17.15 ± 6.1) in the flaxseed-consuming group compared with the control group from (12.48 ± 4.7) to (12.01 ± 5.8) (P = .002). However, no significant difference was observed in serum lipid level in the study groups before and after the intervention (all P > .05).

CONCLUSION

Flaxseed consumption may improve adiposity markers, such as adiponectin level. Thus, flaxseed consumption could be an adjunctive therapy to attenuate central obesity. Serum lipid profile has not changed meaningfully after flaxseed consumption.

Maternal Midpregnancy Leptin and Adiponectin Levels as Predictors of Autism Spectrum Disorders: A Prenatal Cohort Study

CONTEXT

Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are a group of conditions characterized by impaired social function and repetitive behaviors. Their etiology is largely unknown.

OBJECTIVE

This work aims to examine the associations of maternal second-trimester and cord blood leptin and adiponectin levels with ASDs in offspring.

METHODS

We used data from 1164 mother-child pairs enrolled in Project Viva, a prospective prebirth cohort. We used logistic regression analysis to examine the associations of leptin and adiponectin levels in maternal second-trimester blood and cord blood obtained at birth with ASDs. Additionally, we examined the association of maternal prepregnancy body mass index (BMI) as an exposure. Main outcome measures included doctor-diagnosed ASDs reported by mothers using questionnaires in midchildhood and early adolescence.

RESULTS

The cumulative incidence of ASDs was 3.4%. Maternal prepregnancy BMI (per 5 points) was positively associated with ASDs in a logistic regression model adjusted for maternal race/ethnicity, education, smoking status and child sex (adjusted odds ratio [OR] 1.38; 95% CI, 1.06-1.79). Higher second-trimester adiponectin was associated with lower odds of ASD in offspring (unadjusted OR 0.49; 95% CI, 0.30-0.78; and OR 0.54; 95% CI, 0.32-0.91 after adjusting for maternal race/ethnicity, education, child sex, OR 0.55; 95% CI, 0.33-0.93 after adjusting for BMI, gestational weight gain, gestational diabetes, and smoking status). Maternal leptin and cord blood leptin and adiponectin levels were not associated with ASDs.

CONCLUSION

Prepregnancy BMI and adiponectin during pregnancy may be useful as a tool to monitor the risk of autism. Increasing adiponectin levels prenatally may play a role in the prevention of ASDs.

Leptin DNA Methylation and Its Association with Metabolic Risk Factors in a Northwest Indian Obese Population

Background

It is well established that obesity is a major health risk in diabetes and associated diseases. Epigenetic changes, specially DNA methylation, play an important role in regulation of adipokines. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the DNA methylation status at the promoter region of the leptin gene in obese individuals and its association with metabolic risk factors.

Methods

The study included obese (n=100) and non-obese (n=75) individuals aged 25-45 years, and measured their physical, biochemical parameters (glucose, insulin, and lipid profiles) and leptin, DNA methyltransferase 1 (DNMT1), and DNA methyltransferase 3 beta (DNMT3b) mRNA expressions with real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). DNA methylation of the leptin gene at the promoter region was analyzed by methyl-specific qPCR .

Results

The study found that the DNA methylation level at the promoter area of the leptin gene was negatively associated with weight in obese subjects. Furthermore, study findings showed that the DNA methylation level was negatively associated with fasting insulin, glucose, homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance, and total cholesterol. There was also a higher expression of DNMT1 and DNMT-3b in obese subjects as compared with non-obese subjects.

Conclusion

The leptin epigenetic profile may be associated with obesity and its associated metabolic risk factors.

The effects of long-term moderate exercise and Western-type diet on oxidative/nitrosative stress, serum lipids and cytokines in female Sprague Dawley rats

Purpose

Regular exercise reduces obesity and the risk of cardiovascular disease. However, health-promoting benefits of physical activity are commonly associated with increased inflammation and oxidative stress. Here, we tested whether constant moderate exercise is able to prevent or attenuate the oxidative/nitrosative stress, inflammation, and serum lipids in lean and obese rats.

Methods

Four-month-old female Sprague Dawley rats received standard or a high-fat diet. Animals were subjected to a physical activity protocol, consisting of 30 min forced treadmill exercise for 5 consecutive days per week during 10 months. Baseline and sedentary (non-exercised) rats were used as controls. Lipids, oxidized low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, nitric oxide metabolites, and pro- and anti-inflammatory markers were measured in blood collected upon euthanasia.

Results

At variance to young baseline control rats, 14-month-old animals fed normal diet had increased plasma lipid levels, including total cholesterol and triglycerides, which were further elevated in rats that consumed a high-fat diet. While treadmill exercise did not lower the amount of serum lipids in standard diet group, forced physical activity reduced non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol in response to high-fat diet feeding. Exercised rats fed standard diet or high-fat diet had lower abundancy of nitric oxide metabolites, which coincided with increased levels of oxidized low-density lipoprotein cholesterol. Accordingly, the amount of nitric oxide metabolites correlated inversely with oxidized low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and homo-arginine. Exercise significantly reduced inflammatory cytokines in high-fat diet fed rats only.

Conclusion

Our study suggests that regular exercise alters the equilibrium between oxidative and anti-oxidative compounds and reduces pro-inflammatory cytokines.

Effects of maternal taurine supplementation on maternal dietary intake, plasma metabolites and fetal growth and development in cafeteria diet fed rats

BACKGROUND

Maternal obesity may disrupt the developmental process of the fetus during gestation in rats. Recent evidence suggests that taurine can exert protective role against detrimental influence of obesogenic diets. This study aimed to examine the effect of maternal cafeteria diet and/or taurine supplementation on maternal dietary intake, plasma metabolites, fetal growth and development.

METHODS

Female Wistar rats were fed a control diet (CON), CON supplemented with 1.5% taurine in drinking water (CONT), cafeteria diet (CAF) or CAF supplemented with taurine (CAFT) from weaning. After 8 weeks all animals were mated and maintained on the same diets during pregnancy and lactation.

RESULTS

Dietary intakes were significantly different between the groups. Both CAF and CAFT fed dams consumed less water in comparison to CON and CONT dams. Taurine supplementation only increased plasma taurine concentrations in CONT group. Maternal plasma adiponectin concentrations increased in CAF and CAFT fed dams compared to CON and CONT fed dams and there was no effect of taurine. Hyperleptinemia was observed in CAF fed dams but not in CAFT fed dams. Malondialdehyde was significantly increased only in CAF fed dams. Litter size, sex ratio and birth weight were similar between the groups. There was an increase in neonatal mortality in CONT group.

DISCUSSION

This study showed that maternal taurine supplementation exerted modest protective effects on cafeteria diet induced maternal obesity. The increased neonatal mortality in CONT neonates indicates possible detrimental effects of taurine supplementation in the setting of normal pregnancy. Therefore, future studies should investigate the optimal dose of taurine supplementation and long term potential effects on the offspring.

The impact of exercise training on inflammatory markers in postmenopausal women: A systemic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The postmenopausal stage of life is associated with increased systemic inflammation that may be mitigated through exercise training. The effects of exercise training on inflammatory markers in postmenopausal women, however, require further elucidation. We therefore performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to investigate the available high-quality research on the effects of exercise training on inflammatory markers in postmenopausal women.

METHOD

Electronic searches in PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), Web of Science, and Google Scholar were conducted to identify articles published through April 2021, for studies comparing exercise training to a control condition, on inflammatory markers including CRP, IL-6, TNF-α and adiponectin in postmenopausal women. Randomized or non-randomized controlled trials of exercise training were included according to the following criteria: (A) English language articles; (B) involving women participants who were post-menopausal; (C) providing measures of inflammatory markers including IL-6, TNF-α, CRP or adiponectin at baseline and after completion of the intervention; (D) an exercise training intervention duration of ≥4 weeks.

RESULTS

Results were extracted from the included studies and standardized mean differences (SMD) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) were calculated. Thirty-two studies (representing 38 intervention groups) involving 1510 postmenopausal women were retrieved from the databases for analyses. Overall, exercise training significantly reduced IL-6 [-0.75 (95% CI: -1.07 to -0.42), p < 0.001; 20 interventions], TNF-α [-0.64 (95% CI: -0.91 to -0.37), p < 0.001; 24 interventions] and CRP [-0.64 (95%CI: -0.91 to -0.38), p < 0.001; 21 interventions] and increase adiponectin [0.98 (95% CI: 0.10 to 1.86), p = 0.02; 6 interventions], when compared with control. Furthermore, subgroup analyses suggested that aerobic, resistance, and combined training significantly reduced IL-6, TNF-α and CRP (p < 0.05). Exercise training improved IL-6, TNF-α and CRP in both younger (age < 64 years) and older (age ≥ 64 years) participants (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that exercise training may be an effective intervention for reducing pro-inflammatory markers and increasing adiponectin in postmenopausal women.

CXCL8 expression and methylation are correlated with anthropometric and metabolic parameters in childhood obesity

Childhood obesity is a global and increasing health issue. Inflammation and dysregulated adipose tissue secretion are common findings in obesity and have been related to poor metabolic function. Given that DNA methylation impacts gene expression and is responsive to environmental changes, we aimed, in addition to characterize the patients in anthropometric and biochemical terms, to determine the expression of cytokines and adipokines, assess the methylation on regulatory regions of the genes that code for these molecules, and investigate the association of the expression and gene methylation with anthropometric and biochemical parameters in childhood obesity. Obese children present dyslipidemia, dysregulated serum levels of adipokines and their ratios, altered leukocytic expression of cytokines, and higher methylation at the CXCL8 promoter as compared to the control group. However, no significant results were observed in the fasting plasma glucose levels or the methylation of TGFB1, LEP, and the enhancer region of ADIPOQ. We also found negative correlations of CXCL8 expression with anthropometric and biochemical parameters, and positive correlation of CXCL8 promoter methylation and the serum levels of hepatic enzymes. Our results indicate that changes in metabolic parameters observed in childhood obesity are associated with the expression of adipokines and cytokines, and the methylation status at the CXCL8 promoter. CXCL8 may be a key factor for these alterations, as it correlates with many of the parameters assessed in the present study.

Adiponectin and Thyroid Cancer: Insight into the Association between Adiponectin and Obesity

In recent decades, the incidence and diagnosis of thyroid cancer have risen dramatically, and thyroid cancer has now become the most common endocrine cancer in the world. The onset of thyroid cancer is insidious, and its progression is slow and difficult to detect. Therefore, early prevention and treatment have important strategic significance. Moreover, an in-depth exploration of the pathogenesis of thyroid cancer is key to early prevention and treatment. Substantial evidence supports obesity as an independent risk factor for thyroid cancer. Adipose tissue dysfunction in the obese state is accompanied by dysregulation of a variety of adipocytokines. Adiponectin (APN) is one of the most pivotal adipocytokines, and its connection with obesity and obesity-related disease has gradually become a hot topic in research. Recently, the association between APN and thyroid cancer has received increasing attention. The purpose of this review is to systematically review previous studies, give prominence to APN, focus on the relationship between APN, obesity and thyroid cancer, and uncover the underlying pathogenic mechanisms.

Adenosine monophosphate activated protein kinase (AMPK) is essential for the memory improving effect of adiponectin

Adiponectin (APN) plays a major role in the regulation of insulin sensitivity and glucose homeostasis. Insulin and APN have a positive effect on memory. In this study, we examined whether the inhibition of AMPK could block the memory improving effect of APN or affect the IRS1 expression. Animal model of AD was developed by intracerebroventricular (icv) injection of 3 mg/kg streptozotocin (STZ), in 12 weeks old Wistar rats, on days 1 and 3 after cannulation. Dorsomorphin (DM) and APN (600 nM) were injected 30 and 20 min before the acquisition phase, respectively. DM was applied in 3 different doses (0.2, 2 and 20 μM). All behavioral tests were performed on days 15 and 16; the Preference Index (PI) was calculated for novel object recognition (NOR) test, while the step through latency (STL) and total time in dark compartment (TDC) were recorded and analyzed for the passive avoidance task. Relative expression of insulin receptor substrate-1 (IRS-1) protein in the hippocampus was measured by western blotting. In early retrieval test, STZ + APN treatment increased STL (P < 0.0001) and decreased TDC (P < 0.05) in comparison to STZ group, while STZ + APN + DM (2μM) caused a decrease in STL (P < 0.05) and increase in TDC (0.2μM and 2μM DM; P < 0.05). Icv injection of DM (0.2μM and 2μM) before APN decreased the PI significantly (P < 0.05) in comparison to STZ + APN group. APN treatment raised the IRS-1 expression and DM reversed this increment, significantly (P < 0.0001). It is concluded that the memory improving effect of APN is mediated, at least in part, by the AMPK pathway. APN is also able to boost insulin signaling by overexpression of IRS-1 in the hippocampus.

The 'Jekyll and Hyde' of Gluconeogenesis: Early Life Adversity, Later Life Stress, and Metabolic Disturbances

The physiological response to a psychological stressor broadly impacts energy metabolism. Inversely, changes in energy availability affect the physiological response to the stressor in terms of hypothalamus, pituitary adrenal axis (HPA), and sympathetic nervous system activation. Glucocorticoids, the endpoint of the HPA axis, are critical checkpoints in endocrine control of energy homeostasis and have been linked to metabolic diseases including obesity, insulin resistance, and type 2 diabetes. Glucocorticoids, through the glucocorticoid receptor, activate transcription of genes associated with glucose and lipid regulatory pathways and thereby control both physiological and pathophysiological systemic energy homeostasis. Here, we summarize the current knowledge of glucocorticoid functions in energy metabolism and systemic metabolic dysfunction, particularly focusing on glucose and lipid metabolism. There are elements in the external environment that induce lifelong changes in the HPA axis stress response and glucocorticoid levels, and the most prominent are early life adversity, or exposure to traumatic stress. We hypothesise that when the HPA axis is so disturbed after early life adversity, it will fundamentally alter hepatic gluconeogenesis, inducing hyperglycaemia, and hence crystalise the significant lifelong risk of developing either the metabolic syndrome, or type 2 diabetes. This gives a “Jekyll and Hyde” role to gluconeogenesis, providing the necessary energy in situations of acute stress, but driving towards pathophysiological consequences when the HPA axis has been altered.

Adiponectin and 8-epi-PGF2α as intermediate influencing factors in weight reduction after legume consumption: a 12-week randomised controlled trial

Legumes are rich sources of essential nutrients, and their potential health benefits were reported in many studies. Several studies showed a positive effect of legumes on obesity, but randomised clinical trials are limited in the Korean population. The present intervention study investigated the impact of legumes on body weight in obese Korean subjects. A total of 400 participants (BMI ≥ 25 kg/m²) were randomised into two groups. The legume-enriched diet (LD) group replaced one-third of their refined rice consumption with legumes three times per day as a carbohydrate source. In contrast, the usual diet (UD) group consumed their UD. The mean weight loss at 12 weeks was 2·87 (sem 0·21) kg and 0·17 (sem 0·11) kg in the LD and UD, respectively, which was significantly different between the groups (P < 0·001). HDL-cholesterol and adiponectin levels were increased, and levels of glucose, insulin, TAG, and 8-epi-PGF_2α and the homoeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (IR) index value decreased at 12 weeks compared with baseline in the LD. The consumption of legumes may accelerate weight loss accompanied by regulation of adiponectin and 8-epi-PGF_2α in obese subjects. In particular, legumes seemed to induce significant changes in BMI by increasing adiponectin in females. Additionally, increases in plasma adiponectin due to greater substantial weight loss may be related to the improvement in IR.

Low levels of spexin and adiponectin may predict insulin resistance in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver

Adipose tissue is endocrine organ that responds by secreting numerous hormones that regulate metabolism in skeletal muscle and the liver. The aim of this study was to compare the levels of spexin and adiponectin in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver and evaluate the relationship between circulating adipocytokines and insulin resistance. Two groups of subjects were evaluated: 41 non-alcoholic fatty liver subjects (age 35.17 ​± ​12.29 year, BMI 30.97 ​± ​2.75 ​kg/m2) and 38 normal controls (age 38.47 ​± ​11.63 year, BMI 22.83 ​± ​3.00 ​kg/m2). Plasma concentrations of spexin and adiponectin were determined using immunosorbent assay kits. Insulin resistance was assessed using the homeostasis model assessment (HOMA-IR) formula derived from fasting insulin and glucose levels. Compared to normal controls, plasma concentrations of spexin and adiponectin were significantly lower in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver (P ​< ​0.001). Spexin did not correlate with BMI but did significantly correlate with HOMA-IR (r ​= ​-0.368; P ​= ​0.018) and adiponectin (r ​= ​0.378; P ​= ​0.043), and this correlation remained significant after adjustment for gender and BMI. In this small group of patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver we demonstrated that insulin resistance correlated strongly with spexin and adiponectin levels.

•

The plasma spexin levels were decreased in patients with NAFLD.

•

A negative correlation was shown between spexin and HOMA-IR.

•

A negative correlation was shown between adiponectin and HOMA-IR.

Relation of Adiponectin to Cardiovascular Events and Mortality in Patients With Acute Coronary Syndrome

The association between serum adiponectin levels and cardiovascular events, particularly how adiponectin predicts the development of cardiovascular events and mortality in acute coronary syndrome (ACS) patients remains unresolved. Hence, we aimed to determine whether higher adiponectin levels predict cardiovascular events and mortality in these patients. Regression analyses were performed to clarify adiponectin's ability to predict cardiovascular events and mortality among 1,641 ACS patients. Subgroup analyses were performed according to gender, age, and body mass index (BMI). The primary end point was a composite of the first all-cause death, nonfatal myocardial infarction, or nonfatal stroke event. The secondary end point was all-cause death. Hazard ratios for the primary and secondary end points per 5-µg/ml increase in adiponectin levels were 1.31 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.13 to 1.47; p = 0.0007) and 1.32 (95% CI, 1.13 to 1.51; p = 0.001), respectively. Higher adiponectin levels were associated with increased cardiovascular events in men, patients aged ≥65 years, and those with BMI <25 kg/m². In conclusion, higher adiponectin levels were associated with increased cardiovascular events and all-cause mortality in ACS patients. Its predictive ability might be limited in women, patients aged <65 years, and patients with BMI ≥25 kg/m².

Role of ceramides in the pathogenesis of diabetes mellitus and its complications

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a systemic metabolic disease that affects 463 million adults worldwide and is a leading cause of cardiovascular disease, blindness, nephropathy, peripheral neuropathy, and lower-limb amputation. Lipids have long been recognized as contributors to the pathogenesis and pathophysiology of DM and its complications, but recent discoveries have highlighted ceramides, a class of bioactive sphingolipids with cell signaling and second messenger capabilities, as particularly important contributors to insulin resistance and the underlying mechanisms of DM complications. Besides their association with insulin resistance and pathophysiology of type 2 diabetes, evidence is emerging that certain species of ceramides are mediators of cellular mechanisms involved in the initiation and progression of microvascular and macrovascular complications of DM. Advances in our understanding of these associations provide unique opportunities for exploring ceramide species as potential novel therapeutic targets and biomarkers. This review discusses the links between ceramides and the pathogenesis of DM and diabetic complications and identifies opportunities for novel discoveries and applications.

Effects of circuit training or a nutritional intervention on body mass index and other cardiometabolic outcomes in children and adolescents with overweight or obesity

Objective

We aimed to assess the effectiveness of the first 6 months of a 24 month multidisciplinary intervention program including circuit training and a balanced diet in children and adolescents with obesity.

Methods

A quasi-experimental intervention trial included 242 participants (age [mean±standard deviation]: 11.3±2.06 years, 97 girls) of at least 85th percentile of age- and sex-specific body mass index (BMI). Participants were grouped into three to receive usual care (usual care group), exercise intervention with circuit training (exercise group), or intensive nutritional and feedback intervention with a balanced diet (nutritional group). Primary outcome was BMI z-score, while secondary outcomes included body composition, cardiometabolic risk markers, nutrition, and physical fitness.

Results

Among the participants, 80.6% had a BMI ≥ the 97th percentile for age and sex. The BMI z-score of the overall completers decreased by about 0.080 after 6 months of intervention (p < 0.001). After the intervention, both exercise and nutritional groups had significantly lower BMI z-scores than the baseline data by about 0.14 and 0.075, respectively (p < 0.05). Significant group by time interaction effects were observed between exercise versus usual care group in BMI z-score (β, -0.11; 95% confidence interval (CI), -0.20 to -0.023) and adiponectin (β, 1.31; 95% CI, 1.08 to 1.58); and between nutritional versus usual care group in waist circumference (β, -3.47; 95% CI, -6.06 to -0.89). No statistically significant differences were observed in any of the other secondary outcomes assessed.

Conclusion

Multidisciplinary intervention including circuit training and a balanced diet for children and adolescents with obesity reduced the BMI z-score and improved cardiometabolic risk markers such as adiponectin and waist circumference.

Effect of low-carbohydrate diet on adiponectin level in adults: a systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

BACKGROUND

To the best of our knowledge, no previous study has reported findings on the effects of low-carbohydrate diet (LCD) on adiponectin concentration.

OBJECTIVE

The current systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis was carried out to systematically review the available controlled clinical trials about the effect of LCD on adiponectin level in adults.

METHODS

Literature searches of PubMed/Medline, Scopus and Web of Sciences were conducted up to August 2019. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) which assessed the effect of LCD on the adiponectin level were selected.

RESULTS

Eleven studies, including 1047 participants (LCD = 534 and control = 513), were included in the meta-analysis. Proportion of carbohydrate from calorie was from 4 to 34%. Time of the follow-up varied between studies and ranged from 6 to 152 weeks. LCD intake mildly but significantly increased adiponectin (0.02 µg/ml, 95% CI: 0.01 to 0.03, P < 0.001). Dose-response analysis indicated a nonlinear association between the percentage of carbohydrate and change in adiponectin level from baseline (P = 0.04). After subgroup analysis based on the proportion of carbohydrate from calorie, there was a significant increase in adiponectin concentration in studies that prescribed <30% of calorie from carbohydrates (0.12 µg/ml, 95% CI: 0.07-0.18). In contrast, diets which consisted ≥30% of carbohydrates had no significant effect on adiponectin (0.50 µg/ml, 95% CI: -0.46 to 1.48). Also, meta-regression analysis revealed that age (β = 0.04, P = 0.15), baseline BMI (β= -0.15, P = 0.15), time of follow-up (β = 0.01, P = 0.17), percentage of carbohydrates (β = 0.004, P = 0.90), percentage of protein (β= -0.12, P = 0.08), percentage of fat (β = 0.20, P = 0.61) and baseline adiponectin (β = 0.001, P = 0.97) are not sources of heterogeneity.

CONCLUSION

This systematic review and meta-analysis demonstrated a mild but significant effect of LCD on adiponectin concentration compared to control groups.

Asthma and Obesity: Two Diseases on the Rise and Bridged by Inflammation

Asthma and obesity are two epidemics affecting the developed world. The relationship between obesity and both asthma and severe asthma appears to be weight-dependent, causal, partly genetic, and probably bidirectional. There are two distinct phenotypes: 1. Allergic asthma in children with obesity, which worsens a pre-existing asthma, and 2. An often non allergic, late-onset asthma developing as a consequence of obesity. In obesity, infiltration of adipose tissue by macrophages M1, together with an increased expression of multiple mediators that amplify and propagate inflammation, is considered as the culprit of obesity-related inflammation. Adipose tissue is an important source of adipokines, such as pro-inflammatory leptin, produced in excess in obesity, and adiponectin with anti-inflammatory effects with reduced synthesis. The inflammatory process also involves the synthesis of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-1β, IL-6, TNFα, and TGFβ, which also contribute to asthma pathogenesis. In contrast, asthma pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-4, IL-5, IL-13, and IL-33 contribute to maintain the lean state. The resulting regulatory effects of the immunomodulatory pathways underlying both diseases have been hypothesized to be one of the mechanisms by which obesity increases asthma risk and severity. Reduction of weight by diet, exercise, or bariatric surgery reduces inflammatory activity and improves asthma and lung function.

The effects of physical activity on adipokines in individuals with overweight/obesity across the lifespan: A narrative review

This narrative review summarizes current knowledge on the effects of physical activity (PA) on adipokine levels in individuals with overweight and obesity. Approximately 90 investigations including randomized control, cross-sectional and longitudinal studies that reported on the effects of a single session of PA (acute) or long-term PA (chronic) on adipokine levels in individuals with overweight/obesity were reviewed. The findings support the notion that there is consensus on the benefits of chronic exercise training-regardless of the mode (resistance vs. aerobic), intensity and cohort (healthy vs. diabetes)-on adipokine levels (such as tumour necrosis factor-alpha, interleukin-6, adiponectin, visfatin, omentin-1 and leptin). However, several confounding factors (frequency, intensity, time and type of exercise) can alter the magnitude of the effects of an acute exercise session. Available evidence suggests that PA, as a part of routine lifestyle behaviour, improves obesity complications by modulating adipokine levels. However, additional research is needed to help identify the most effective interventions to elicit the most beneficial changes in adipokine levels in individuals with overweight/obesity.

The investigation effect of weight loss on serum vaspin, apelin-13, and obestatin levels in obese individual

Objectives

It was aimed to investigate if there were any significant corresponding changes on adipokine levels in obese subjects who achieved a 10% reduction in body weight.

Methods

Thirty obese and 25 healthy adults were enrolled in present study, and serum levels of vaspin, apelin-13, obestatin, and insulin were determined with the ELISA method.

Results

The serum obestatin and apelin-13 values of the obese group obtained as basal and after weight loss was significantly lower than in controls (p<0.05, p<0.01, p<0.01, p<0.05, respectively); however, weight loss did not cause significant changes on these parameters in obese groups (p>0.05). The vaspin level did not differ between the groups (p>0.05). The obese group had characterized increased serum insulin and insulin resistance assessment by the homeostatic assay (HOMA-IR) levels compared to controls (p<0.01, p<0.05, respectively); also, weight loss caused a significant decrease in these parameters compared to basal levels (p<0.01). No significant correlation was detected among the vaspin, apelin-13 and obestatin levels in the obese group (p>0.05).

Conclusions

Obese individuals exhibited decreased levels of apelin-13 and obestatin. Moreover, 10% weight loss caused a significant reduction of insulin resistance, but no significant change was detected on apelin-13, obestatin, and vaspin levels.

Impact of different exercise intensities on pregnant rats and on their offspring

This study aimed at evaluating the levels of different maternal exercise intensities on maternal and fetal outcomes. Wistar rats were mated and the pregnant rats were distributed into four experimental groups (n = 13 animals/group): Control (Not exercise group - 0% of the anaerobic threshold- AT), mild (20%), moderate (80%), and heavy-exercise intensity (140% of AT). These AT were matched to the load of 0, 1, 4 and 7% of the body weight of the animal related to swimming-induced physical intensity. In pregnancy, biomarkers related to maternal blood gases, oxidative stress, metabolism, and reproductive performance, and outcomes of their offspring were analyzed. The mild and moderate-swimming caused no change on implantation, live fetus numbers and oxidative stress status. However, the rats submitted to mild-exercise presented respiratory alkalosis and the heavy-exercise group showed respiratory acidosis. In addition, fetuses of the heavy-exercise dams were smaller for gestational age and lower serum adiponectin levels compared to those of other groups. In conclusion, the moderate-exercise intensity caused beneficial effects for maternal environment and the mild and moderate-exercise presented similar fetal repercussions. Nevertheless, the heavy-exercise intensity caused maternal metabolic alterations that damaged the fetal growth. Therefore, these findings confirm that physical intensity should be carefully conducted to avoid maternal complications and, consequently, compromised fetal repercussions.

Effect of a weight loss program on serum adiponectin and insulin resistance among overweight and obese premenopausal females

BACKGROUND

Obesity has emerged as a public health crisis in many populations including Egypt. Adipose tissue produces a number of adipokines, one of them is adiponectin which has attracted much attention because of its antidiabetic and antiatherogenic effects.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the effect of a weight loss program on serum adiponectin level and insulin resistance among overweight and obese adult premenopausal females.

STUDY DESIGN

A pre-postintervention study was carried out among 95 premenopausal overweight and obese females (body mass index ≥ 25 kg/m²) aged 20 to 40 years at the integrated health clinic affiliated to the High Institute of Public Health, Alexandria, Egypt, from February 2016 to February 2017. All participants underwent a weight loss program based on a reduced calorie balanced diet and advised to increase their physical activity. Dietary instructions and follow-up were done weekly throughout 16 weeks. Blood samples were collected to investigate serum adiponectin level and insulin resistance at the beginning and the end of the intervention.

RESULTS

After 16 weeks, a significant decrease in body weight by 9.7% was associated with a significant increase in serum adiponectin from 13.3 ± 4.9 μg/ml to 18.5 ± 5.6 μg/ml. Both fasting insulin and insulin resistance had decreased significantly by 13.6% and 13.7%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

A weight reduction program depending on a reduced calorie diet for 16 weeks was associated with a significant increase in total adiponectin level and reduction in insulin resistance. An emphasis on the importance of keeping normal weight through nutritional education and the promotion of healthy diets is recommended to reduce the risk of occurrence of insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases.

Effects of Vitamin D Supplementation on Omentin-1 and Spexin Levels, Inflammatory Parameters, Lipid Profile, and Anthropometric Indices in Obese and Overweight Adults with Vitamin D Deficiency under Low-Calorie Diet: A Randomized Placebo Controlled Trial

Background and Aims

Improved vitamin D levels can have a favorable effect on some metabolic variables. The objective of the current study was to determine the effects of vitamin D supplementation during a weight-loss intervention on the levels of omentin-1, spexin, lipid profiles, and inflammatory factors in obese and overweight participants.

Methods and Materials

In this double-blind placebo-controlled randomized clinical trial, 70 overweight and obese participants with vitamin D deficiency (25(OH)D ≤ 20 nmol/L) were assigned into the intervention (a daily dose of 2,000 IU vitamin D + low-calorie diet) and placebo (placebo + low-calorie diet) groups for 8 weeks. Anthropometric parameters, serum levels of 25-hydroxy vitamin D (25(OH)D), lipid profiles, omentin-1 and spexin levels, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), and soluble intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (sICAM-1) concentrations were assessed before and after the intervention.

Results

Vitamin D supplementation after the intervention led to a significant decrease in triglycerides (TG) (P = 0.02), very-low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (VLDL-C) (P = 0.02), and hs-CRP (P = 0.03) concentrations and a significant increase in the serum vitamin D level (P < 0.001). Furthermore, after adjusting for baseline values, age, and baseline BMI, the levels of serum high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C) (P = 0.01) increased significantly, and a significant reduction was observed in the concentration of sICAM-1 (P = 0.01) in the intervention group. However, we did not find any significant difference in serum omentin-1 and spexin concentrations between the groups after intervention.

Conclusions

Vitamin D supplementation along with a low-calorie diet (LCD) program for 8 weeks significantly decreased the inflammatory markers in obese individuals, while it did not alter serum omentin-1 and spexin concentrations.

Serum Lipid and Adiponectin Improvements after a Mediterranean Dietary Pattern in Non-G-Allele Carriers of the Variant rs3774261

BACKGROUND

The role of adiponectin (ADIPOQ) polymorphisms in weight loss and serum lipid changes following different dietary interventions remain unclear. The Mediterranean dietary pattern has been associated with improved cardiovascular risk factors in different studies.

OBJECTIVE

Our aim was to analyze the effects of a hypocaloric diet with a Mediterranean dietary pattern on the metabolic response and adiposity parameters, taking into account the 712 G/A rs3774261 polymorphisms in ADIPOQ.

DESIGN

A population of 135 obese patients was enrolled. Anthropometric and serum parameters (lipid profile, insulin, homeostasis model assessment for insulin resistance [HOMA-IR], glucose, C-reactive protein [CRP], adiponectin, resistin, and leptin levels) were measured before and after the dietary intervention (12 weeks). All of the patients were genotyped for the rs3774261 polymorphism.

RESULTS

The genotype distribution of this population was 36 patients with AA (26.7%), 68 patients with AG (50.4%), and 31 patients with GG (22.9%). After the dietary intervention and in both genotypes, BMI, weight, fat mass, systolic blood pressure, waist circumference, glucose, insulin, HOMA-IR, and leptin levels all decreased. After the dietary intervention with secondary weight loss and in non-G-allele carriers (AA vs. AG+GG), total cholesterol (Δ = -15.7 ± 3.9 vs. -4.9 ± 2.9 mg/dL; p = 0.02), LDL cholesterol (Δ = -15.3 ± 3.8 vs. -1.7 ± 1.9 mg/dL; p = 0.01), triglyceride levels (Δ = -23.4 ± 5.6 vs. 2.3 ± 2.3 mg/dL; p = 0.01), and CRP (Δ = -1.1 ± 0.1 vs. -0.4 ± 0.2 mg/dL; p = 0.01) decreased. Adiponectin levels (Δ = 7.2 ± 2.1 vs. -0.4 ± 0.3 ng/dL; p = 0.02) increased. Notably, G-allele carriers did not show this improvement.

CONCLUSION

Non-G-allele carriers of the ADIPOQ variant (rs3774261) showed significant improvement in serum levels of adiponectin, lipid profiles, and CRP in response to a hypocaloric diet with a Mediterranean dietary pattern.

Can Periodontal Disease Be Considered Linked to Obesity and Lipoinflammation? Mechanisms Involved in the Pathogenesis Occurrence

Obesity is a systemic disease, associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disorders, type 2 diabetes, cancer, asthma, and osteoarthritis. Overweight and obesity have been suggested to be associated with periodontitis as published in studies and narrative summaries. Obesity and periodontal diseases are very prevalent in the world, and both can lead to severe chronic health conditions and impair people’s life quality. Knowledge of how immune mechanisms and inflammatory responses are regulated is critical for understanding the pathogenesis of complex diseases, such as periodontitis. In conditions of overweight, it has been demonstrated that approximately 70–80% of individuals present an adipose tissue turnover that is both structurally and functionally causing of the systemic inflammatory reaction. The objective of this review is to explore the influence of lipoinflammation. The effects of lipoinflammation and obesity on development of periodontal disease are reported together with the exploration of the mechanisms of interaction between these two diseases.

Effects of Hypnotherapy on Weight Loss and thus on Serum Leptin, Adiponectin, and Irisin Levels in Obese Patients

Objective: This study aimed to investigate effects of hypnotherapy on weight loss and thus on leptin, adiponectin (ADP), and irisin levels in obese patients who presented to the psychiatry outpatient clinic to participate in hypnotherapy sessions to develop a healthy and balanced diet. Methods: The study sample included 32 individuals with a body mass index (BMI) of ≥30 and who completed the 10-week hypnotherapy. First, the Personal Information Form was handed out to the participants and then each participant's weight (in the morning on an empty stomach) and height were measured and BMI was determined. Five-milliliter blood samples were drawn before the first session, and then irisin, leptin, and ADP levels were measured using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay method. Then, they participated in hypnotherapy sessions once a week for 10 weeks. At the end of the 10-week hypnotherapy, 5 mL of blood was taken again and the aforementioned biochemical analyses were performed. BMIs were measured again. Results: The mean BMI values of the patients were 33.43 ± 5.28 and 31.45 ± 4.98 at the beginning and end of the hypnotherapy sessions, respectively. Serum leptin, ADP, and irisin levels, which were 9.48 ± 5.48, 6.73 ± 3.27, and 1.43 ± 1.14, respectively, at the beginning of the hypnotherapy sessions, were 6.47 ± 2.69, 7.68 ± 3.34, and 1.53 ± 1.21, respectively, at the end of the hypnotherapy sessions. The results showed that BMI and serum leptin levels decreased significantly after the hypnotherapy sessions, whereas serum ADP and irisin levels increased significantly. Conclusions: This study indicates that hypnotherapy in obesity treatment leads to weight loss in obese patients and thus to considerable changes in leptin, ADP, and irisin levels. Hypnotherapy is easy to apply, cheap, and effective; has no potential for side effects; and can be applied both alone and in combination with other treatments. However, to confirm its effects, further studies should be conducted on this issue.

Potential involvement of adiponectin in obesity-associated erosive esophagitis

A strong causal relationship between obesity and erosive esophagitis has been proposed. Obesity may affect the pathogenesis of erosive esophagitis through adipokines as well as acid reflux. We evaluated the involvement of adiponectin in obesity-associated erosive esophagitis. In total, 1,902 patients who underwent endoscopy during medical check-ups were selected for study. Variables including the body mass index (BMI) and adiponectin level were compared between subjects with erosive esophagitis and normal controls. The subjects were classified by quartiles (Qs) of adiponectin level. Q4 was the reference group. The median adiponectin level differed by gender (men, 5.3 µg/ml vs women, 9.3 µg/ml; p<0.001). As the severity of erosive esophagitis increased in men, the BMI increased (p<0.001) while the adiponectin level decreased (p = 0.026). The multivariate odds ratio for erosive esophagitis was 1.79 for Q1, 1.73 for Q2, 2.34 for obesity, and 27.40 for hiatal hernia in men. When classified by obesity, the multivariate odds ratio for erosive esophagitis was 1.94 for Q1, 2.10 for Q2, and 18.47 for hiatal hernia only in obese men. In women, there were no trends in BMI, adiponectin levels, or severity of erosive esophagitis. We demonstrated that low adiponectin levels are involved in obesity-associated erosive esophagitis in men but not women.