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Review
. 2021 Mar 26;135(6):731-752.
doi: 10.1042/CS20200895.

The complex role of adipokines in obesity, inflammation, and autoimmunity

Erin B Taylor  1
Affiliations
Review

The complex role of adipokines in obesity, inflammation, and autoimmunity

Erin B Taylor. Clin Sci (Lond). .

Abstract

The global obesity epidemic is a major contributor to chronic disease and disability in the world today. Since the discovery of leptin in 1994, a multitude of studies have characterized the pathological changes that occur within adipose tissue in the obese state. One significant change is the dysregulation of adipokine production. Adipokines are an indispensable link between metabolism and optimal immune system function; however, their dysregulation in obesity contributes to chronic low-grade inflammation and disease pathology. Herein, I will highlight current knowledge on adipokine structure and physiological function, and focus on the known roles of these factors in the modulation of the immune response. I will also discuss adipokines in rheumatic and autoimmune diseases.

Keywords: adipokines; autoimmunity; immunity; inflammation; obesity.

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Conflict of interest statement

The author declares that there are no competing interests associated with the manuscript.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1. Immune cell changes in response to obesity in adipose tissue
Lean adipose is dominated by alternatively activated M2 macrophages, Th2 cells, Tregs, iNKT cells, and eosinophils, while obese adipose has increased influx of monocytes, proinflammatory M1 macrophages, Th1 cells, Th17 cells, neutrophils, and B cells. Created with Biorender.com.
Figure 2
Figure 2. Adipokines in lean and obese states
Adipokines that are discussed in this review are summarized. Created with Biorender.com.
Figure 3
Figure 3. Immunomodulatory effects of leptin
Created with Biorender.com.
Figure 4
Figure 4. Immunomodulatory effects of adiponectin
Created with Biorender.com.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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