Adiponectin, a key adipokine in obesity related liver diseases

Figure 1 Crosstalk of visceral adipose tissue and the liver. Free fatty acids and Interleukin (IL)-6 released by visceral adipose tissue (VAT) are transported to the liver by the portal vein. Free fatty acids promote steatosis, enhance β-oxidation and the release of very low density lipoproteins (VLDL) contributing to dyslipidemia. IL-6 induces hepatic C-reactive protein (CRP) synthesis and suppressor of cytokine signalling 3 (SOCS3), and thereby is linked to systemic inflammation and hepatic insulin resistance, respectively (adapted from Schaffler A, Scholmerich J, Buchler C. Mechanisms of disease: adipocytokines and visceral adipose tissue--emerging role in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Nat Clin Pract Gastroenterol Hepatol 2005; 2: 273-280[6]). ER: Endoplasmatic reticulum; TG: Triglycerides.