Adiponectin: An Endothelium-Derived Vasoprotective Factor?

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.