Abstract

SANCHEZ N, Julio C; LOPEZ Z, Diego F; PINZON D, Óscar A  and  SEPULVEDA A, Juan C. Adipokines and metabolic syndrome: multiple aspects of a complex pathophysiological process. Rev. Colom. Cardiol. [online]. 2010, vol.17, n.4, pp.167-176. ISSN 0120-5633.

Due to the high morbidity and mortality of cardiovascular diseases and their relationship with basic disorders such as obesity and metabolic syndrome, the understanding of the mechanisms and processes that trigger metabolic alterations and generate such diseases, is a crucial matter. In this regard, adipose tissue and adipocytes have a crucial role in this process through the production of multiple adipokines, some of them classical and others recently described; however, until now their role is beginning to be elucidated in the middle of the complex picture of pathophysiological interactions leading to insulin resistance and the metabolic imbalance that leads to a large number of clinic complications. A group of these adipokines has clear pro-inflammatory effects, while others can be classified as anti-inflammatory, which counteract in some extent the effects of the others. When this homeostasis is broken, the originated cascade of chronic inflammation triggers insulin resistance and the metabolic syndrome is developed from obesity, which in turn generates changes in adipocyte response to different stimuli. This, together with the effects of other elements, forms a complex picture of factors that need to be considered for the correct management of obesity and its comorbidities.

Keywords : adipokines; adipocyte; metabolic syndrome; obesity; inflammation.

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