Gene expression of adiponectin receptors in human visceral and subcutaneous adipose tissue is related to insulin resistance and metabolic parameters and is altered in response to physical training.

Description

This study explores the associations of adiponectin receptors 1 (AdipoR1) and 2 (AdipoR2) expression in intra-abdominal (visceral) and subcutaneous adipose tissue with metabolic parameters and insulin sensitivity. The investigators found no difference between omental and subcutaneous fat in AdipoR1 and AdipoR2 mRNA expression but a several-fold lower expression of both receptors in adipose tissue in comparison with muscle. The authors also found strong associations between AdipoR2 mRNA expression in intra-abdominal fat and its expression in subcutaneous fat. Moreover, AdipoR2 mRNA expression in both intra-abdominal and subcutaneous fat was positively associated with circulating adiponectin and HDL cholesterol levels but negatively associated with obesity, parameters of insulin resistance, glycemia, and other lipid levels before and after adjustment for fat mass. This study also demonstrates that an intensive, four-week exercise intervention can increase expression of both adiponectin receptors in subcutaneous adipose tissue in subjects with normal glucose tolerance, impaired glucose tolerance, and type 2 diabetes. Accordingly, the authors conclude that increased expression of both receptors might mediate the beneficial effects of exercise on insulin resistance, glycemia, and lipidemia.