Adiponectin

What this laboratory test evaluates

DetailsAdiponectin – Adipocytes (fat cells) express a variety of proteins that function in the homeostatic control of glucose and lipid metabolism. Insulin regulates the translocation and secretion of many of these proteins in response to changes in energy balance. Adiponectin is a protein whose secretion from adipocytes is enhanced by insulin stimulation.

It has been suggested that the development of non-insulin dependent (Type II) diabetes may involve dysregulation of adiponectin secretion. In support of the link between obesity and Type II diabetes, it has been shown that decreased expression of adiponectin correlates with insulin resistance, and that adiponectin appears to be a potent insulin enhancer linking adipose tissue and whole-body glucose metabolism.

Individuals with low adiponectin levels have a 3X greater risk of developing metabolic syndrome [1]. Men with two or more risk factors for metabolic syndrome and high adiponectin levels are half as likely to develop metabolic syndrome as men with low adiponectin levels [2]. Individuals with low levels of adiponectin are up to 9X as likely to develop type 2 diabetes [3]. Individuals with low adiponectin levels have a 2X increase in the prevalence of CAD [4]. Adiponectin levels in the blood can be increased by thiazolidinediones, such as pioglitazone [5].

References:
1. Chen SJ et al. PLoS ONE. 2012; 7: e45693.
2. Kotooka N et al. Int J Cardiol. 2012 Nov 26. pii: S0167-5273(12)01441-6. doi:10.1016/j.ijcard.2012.10.066. [Epub ahead of print].
3. Daimon M et al. Diabetes Care. 2003; 26: 2015-2020.
4. Kumada M et al. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol. 2003; 23: 35-39.
5. McCoy RG et al. Mayo Clin Proc. 2012; 87: 561-570.

What type of sample is required for this test?1 mL serum

Test ResourcesFor more information, please consult your healthcare provider.

Additional test information

Adiponectin – Adipocytes (fat cells) express a variety of proteins that function in the homeostatic control of glucose and lipid metabolism. Insulin regulates the translocation and secretion of many of these proteins in response to changes in energy balance. Adiponectin is a protein whose secretion from adipocytes is enhanced by insulin stimulation.

Collection and processing

• Sample type: Serum
• Fasting: Yes
• Estimated laboratory processing: Results should be available in 2 – 5 business days after the sample is collected

How Sunridge uses laboratory information

Sunridge considers the medical question, symptoms, history, medications, prior results, and whether the finding could change care before recommending testing. A laboratory result is not interpreted in isolation and does not establish a diagnosis by itself.

Before requesting this test

Availability, collection requirements, eligibility, and processing estimates can change. Sunridge reviews each request and, when appropriate, creates the order through Fullscript. Follow the current instructions supplied with the approved order.