Adipokine

An adipokine is a signaling molecule secreted by adipose tissue that influences metabolism, appetite, insulin sensitivity, or inflammation.

Adipose tissue: A connective tissue that stores energy in fat cells and also secretes signaling molecules. It is the source tissue whose secretions define adipokines.
Leptin: An adipocyte-derived hormone that signals energy stores to the brain and helps regulate appetite. It is a prominent adipokine linking fat reserves to feeding and energy expenditure.
Obesity: A chronic disease involving excess body fat that can impair health through metabolic and other effects. Expanded adipose tissue changes adipokine production and often promotes dysfunctional signaling.
Ghrelin: A hormone produced mainly in the stomach that stimulates appetite and helps regulate energy balance. Unlike adipokines, its principal source is the stomach rather than adipose tissue.
Adipose tissue macrophage: A macrophage residing in adipose tissue that helps regulate local inflammation and tissue remodeling. These immune cells also release signals, complicating attribution of adipose secretions to fat cells alone.
Adipocyte: A specialized cell that stores energy as lipid and releases hormones and other signaling molecules. Adipocytes produce many of the best-known adipokines.
Adiponectin: A protein secreted mainly by adipocytes that supports insulin sensitivity and fatty-acid oxidation. It illustrates how an adipokine can improve metabolic function.
Insulin resistance: A reduced response to insulin in target tissues, which can raise blood glucose and strain pancreatic function. Altered adipokine signaling can contribute to impaired insulin responsiveness.
Myokine: A signaling molecule released by skeletal muscle, especially in response to muscle activity. It is a tissue-defined signal from muscle rather than fat.
Adipose tissue inflammation: A state of immune activation in adipose tissue that often accompanies obesity and metabolic dysfunction. It can change adipokine release, while adipokines can also shape the inflammation.

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Polycystic ovary syndromeRelated: Adipokine signaling is one area being studied for links between body composition and PCOS metabolism.