Abstract:
Introduction. Obesity is a complex problem, multifactorial disorder, characterized by the
increase in body weight due to adipose tissue. In recent decades, it has become one of the most
common nutritional diseases in the world, being considered the 21st century disease. Its
increasing incidence requires attention due to the associated mortality and morbidity potential.
Obesity is the most important risk factor for atherosclerosis, hypertension, dyslipidemia,
diabetes, being a constituent part of the metabolic syndrome. Studying the role of ghrelin, leptin,
adiponectin, TNF could serve as information markers of obesity and other metabolic disorders,
organ and obesity-related disorders.
Aim of the study. In this review, I will evaluate and systematize the pathogenetic factors
originating from the adipose tissue involved in the metabolic disorder.
Materials and methods. The information was searched using the PubMed engine along with the
PsycArticles database. The following keywords joined the search for titles / abstracts via
PubMed: Pathogenesis of obesity, leptin, metabolic syndrome, metabolic inflammation.
Results. Adipose tissue produces a series of cytokines collectively called adipocytokine. TNFalfa
- was the first cytokine identified in the adipose tissue in obese mice, marking the beginning
of the concept of metabolic inflammation. A series of clinical and experimental studies have
been reported showing that adiponectin functions as an anti-atherogenic, anti-inflammatory and
antidiabetic agent. Hypoadiponectinemia increases the risk of type II diabetes, hypertension and
dyslipidemia and ultimately causes atherosclerosis. Leptin has pro-inflammatory effects by
stimulating IL-2 synthesis and by inhibiting the synthesis of IL-4 by T cells. Proinflammatory
cytokines induce the synthesis and release of leptin, which helps maintain chronic inflammation
in obesity.
Conclusions. The regulation of adipocytokine and brain-intestinal hormone levels will allow the
development of methods of prophylaxis and pathogenetic therapy of obesity, metabolic disorders
and multiple organ dysfunction-induced obesity.
