The adipokines, or adipocytokines (Greek adipo-, fat; cytos-, cell; and -kinos, movement) are cytokines (cell signaling proteins) secreted by adipose tissue. Some contribute to an obesity-related low-grade state of inflammation or to the development of metabolic syndrome, a constellation of diseases including, but not limited to, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and atherosclerosis.[1] The first adipokine to be discovered was leptin in 1994.[2] Since that time, hundreds of adipokines have been discovered.[3]
Members include:
Interleukin 8 (IL-8), interleukin 10 (IL-10), interferon gamma (IFN-γ) and inducible protein 10 (IP-10 or CXCL10) have been shown to be associated with excessive body weight.[9]
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Intercellular signaling peptides and proteins / ligands
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| Growth factors |
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| Ephrin |
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| Other |
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see also extracellular ligand disorders | |
