Increased adipose tissue insulin resistance in metabolic syndrome: relationship to circulating adipokines

Metab Syndr Relat Disord. 2014 Dec;12(10):503-7. doi: 10.1089/met.2014.0092. Epub 2014 Aug 27.

Abstract

Background: Although hepatic insulin resistance has been documented in patients with metabolic syndrome using homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) as a measure, there is scanty data on adipose insulin resistance (Adipo-IR) and its relationship with the dysregulation of adipokines in metabolic syndrome. Thus, we examined whether Adipo-IR is increased in metabolic syndrome as well as its correlation with circulating adipokines.

Methods: In 42 individuals including controls and participants with metabolic syndrome, we measured fasting plasma insulin and free fatty acids (FFA). Adipo-IR was calculated as the product of FFA×insulin. We examined the association between Adipo-IR, metabolic syndrome variables, and circulating adipokines, including leptin, adiponectin, chemerin, omentin-1, and retinol-binding protein-4.

Results: Adipo-IR was higher in metabolic syndrome (n=19; median 68.7 mmol/L·pmol/L; 25(th)-75(th) percentile, 50.0-104.7) compared to controls (n=23; 22.9 mmol/L·pmol/L; 6.8-36.1; P<0.0001), and this difference was similar following adjustments for waist circumference or body mass index (BMI). Adipo-IR correlated significantly with certain adipokines: Leptin, r=0.45, P=0.004; adiponectin, r=-0.33, P<0.05; chemerin r=0.55, P=0.0008; omentin-1, r=-0.46, P=0.04, and with all features of metabolic syndrome.

Conclusions: Adipo-IR is increased in metabolic syndrome following adjustment for adiposity and may be an important biomarker of adipose tissue dysregulation, including adipokine secretion and a potential relevant therapeutic target.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adipokines / blood*
  • Adipose Tissue / metabolism*
  • Adipose Tissue / physiopathology
  • Adiposity
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Biomarkers / blood
  • Body Mass Index
  • Case-Control Studies
  • Fatty Acids, Nonesterified / blood
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Insulin / blood
  • Insulin Resistance*
  • Male
  • Metabolic Syndrome / blood*
  • Metabolic Syndrome / diagnosis
  • Metabolic Syndrome / physiopathology
  • Middle Aged
  • Waist Circumference
  • Young Adult

Substances

  • Adipokines
  • Biomarkers
  • Fatty Acids, Nonesterified
  • Insulin