The relationship between adipokines, metabolic parameters and insulin resistance in patients with metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes

This study was designed to investigate the relationship between adipokines in metabolic syndrome and insulin resistance. Sixty male and female subjects with or without metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes were included. The homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) was calculated. Compared with lean control subjects, patients with metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes had lower circulating levels of total adiponectin and high molecular weight (HMW) adiponectin, and higher levels of leptin and interleukin-6 (IL-6). Total and HMW adiponectin and the adiponectin/leptin (A/L) ratio were negatively correlated with HOMA-IR. After adjusting for age and sex, leptin, IL-6 and tumour necrosis factor-a (TNF-α) were positively correlated with HOMA-IR. After also adjusting for body mass index, HOMA-IR was found to be independently associated with leptin, A/L ratio and TNF-α levels. In conclusion, decreased total adiponectin and HMW adiponectin and increased leptin and IL-6 levels are characteristic of patients with metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes.