Description
AdiponectIn is a 244 amino acid protein and one of several known adipocytokines secreted by the adipocyte. Adiponectin circulates in the blood in various oligomeric complexes ranging from dimeric to "bouquet" structures of 9 or more proteins which include HMW adiponectin (12-mer or 18-mer). Functions of adiponectin include protection against atherosclerosis, improvement of insulin sensitivity and prevention of hepatic fibrosis. In recent years, the relationship between these physiological actions and the multimeric structure of circulating adiponectin has attracted wide attention, and data has shown that the ratio of circulating HMW adiponectin to total adiponectin is more informative than total adiponectin levels alone