The effects of exercise on adipokines -Focus on circulating adiponectin level in human studies-

Abstract

Adipose tissue is an important site for energy storage and energy homeostasis. In addition, it has been recognized as an endocrine organ that produces and secretes a number of bioactive peptides or proteins called "adipokines". These molecules are directly and indirectly involved in the pathogenesis of metabolic disorders, such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, cardiovas-cular diseases, and metabolic syndrome. Until now, a number of adipokines (e.g. adiponectin, leptin, tumor necrosis factor-α  interleukin-6, and retinol-binding protein-4) have been identified and their functions have been elucidated. Among these, adiponectin is known to be involved in improvement in insulin sensitivity and endothelial function, and promotion of fat oxidation. Aerobic exercise also has the same effects. The benefits of aerobic exercise could be induced through changes in adiponectin levels. In this short-review, focus is given to the effects of aero-bic exercise on circulating adiponectin levels in humans.