Adiponectin in hepatology

adiponectin is a protective adipocytokine, involved in the regulation of glucose and lipid metabolism, produced by adipocytes. adiponectin levels are inversely related to insulin resistance and are lower in obese subjects and in patients with insulin resistance. the hepato-protective effects of adiponectin are largely mediated by the coordination of multiple signalling pathways, leading to enhanced fat oxidation, reduced lipid synthesis and prevention of hepatic steatosis. literature recently highlighted the role played by adiponectin in the development and progression of liver diseases, in particular non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and chronic hepatitis C. In this context, genetic predisposition influences the evolution of hepatic injury. adiponectin and its pathways are promising candidates for future development in both the pharmacotherapy and the prediction of liver and metabolic diseases.