There has been much effort recently to explore the role of adipocytokines in the interaction
between adipose tissue, inflammation, and immunity. Tumor necrosis factor-alpha, interleukin-6,
resistin, and many other adipocytokines are the soluble mediators derived mainly from
adipocytes (fat cells). They are known to influence insulin sensitivity and glucose
metabolism profoundly, thus providing a molecular link between increased adiposity
and insulin resistance (IR). Resistin, an adipocytokine, is a member of a class of
cysteine-rich proteins, collectively termed resistin-like molecules. They were initially
discovered in rodents. It is present in gross visceral fat deposits and is released
by adipocytes in humans. Owing to the regional variation in the expression of resistin
mRNA and protein levels in humans, the highest levels have been noted in the abdominal
depot. It is interesting to note that resistin also gets released from infiltrating
white blood cells subsequent to subclinical chronic low-grade inflammatory response,
accompanying obesity. This convergence of adipocyte and macrophage function in obese
Type II diabetics has paved its role in molecular linkage of obesity, inflammation
and metabolic syndrome (MetS) risk. Resistin, being a pro-inflammatory adiopokine,
contributes to atherosclerosis. High serum resistin levels have been found, although
with some inconsistencies, in cardiovascular patients, labeling it as a cardiovascular
disease (CVD) marker, to predict incident cardiovascular events. Both IR and inflammation
are the pathogenic factors contributing to increased risk of CVD, associated with
diabetes, thus tagging resistin as a potential MetS marker. In conclusion, resistin
is a fascinating new hormone awaiting further research in the obesity – IR – diabetes
– MetS link.
Keywords
Adipocytokines - diabetes - obesity - resistin
