Obesity & Adipokines

Obesity is primarily characterized by an excessive fat accumulation that may impair health. Adipose tissue contains differentiated cells called adipocytes that are specialized in storing fat. In addition to their function in controlling energy homeostasis, adipocytes release endocrine and paracrine signaling molecules called adipokines that are important in many physiological and metabolic processes. Some adipokines such as adiponectin, omentin, Nampt (Visfatin/PBEF), vaspin, resistin or RBP4 are involved in insulin signaling. Others regulate food intake and lipid metabolism (e.g. leptin, chemerin, perilipins).