THE DYSFUNCTION OF ADIPOSE TISSUE IN INFLAMMATION AND ATHEROSCLEROSIS

Abstract

Adipose tissue, viewed as an active endocrine organ, secretes an increased number of mediators implicated in metabolic processes and is a key regulator of inflammation, coagulation, and fibrinolysis. Adipokines, biologically active peptides, secreted by adipocytes interfere with insulin actions and endothelial cell function and contribute to development of endothelial dysfunction, a preclinical stage of atherosclerosis. Obesity is associated with a chronic inflammatory state in white adipose tissue which releases proinflammatory cytokines that inhibit insulin action in liver, skeletal muscle and adipose cells and impaired glucose homeostasis.

Adipokines and low-grade inflammatory state may be the link between insulin resistance, obesity and cardiovascular disease.