Adiponectin is a hormone produced primarily by adipose tissue (adipocytes) that plays an important role in the regulation of metabolism, especially carbohydrate and fat. It improves the sensitivity of cells to insulin, promotes the breakdown of fatty acids and reduces blood glucose levels.
High levels of adiponectin are associated with a lower risk of metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. In obesity, the concentration of this hormone, as a rule, decreases, which contributes to metabolic disorders and increased inflammatory reactions.