Adiponectin and Adiponectin Signaling

Adiponectin is an adipokine with anti-diabetic, anti-atherogenic, and anti-inflammatory functions. Serum levels of adiponectin are positively associated with insulin sensitivity in humans. While the beneficial roles of adiponectin in maintaining energy homeostasis and against inflammation are well recognized, the feasibility for using adiponectin as drug interventions is low due to its complicated structure, high circulating levels, and relatively short half-life. Understanding the features of adiponectin receptors and the signal pathways downstream of the receptors are essential for developing adiponectin mimic and therapeutic drugs to promote adiponectin sensitivity. Here, we discuss adiponectin and adiponectin signal pathways with an emphasis on the roles of adiponectin in maintaining glucose and lipid homeostasis and controlling chronic inflammation. We also review the sensitizing effect and mechanism of adiponectin on insulin signaling.