The Association of Adiponectin and Visceral Fat with Insulin Resistance and beta-Cell Dysfunction

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Obesity is a risk factor for metabolic abnormalities. We investigated the relationship of adiponectin levels and visceral adiposity with insulin resistance and beta-cell dysfunction. METHODS: This cross-sectional study enrolled 1,347 participants (501 men and 846 women aged 30-64 years) at the Cardiovascular and Metabolic Diseases Etiology Research Center. Serum adiponectin levels and visceral fat were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kits and dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, respectively. Insulin resistance was evaluated using the homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) and Matsuda insulin sensitivity index. beta-cell dysfunction was evaluated using the homeostatic model assessment of beta-cell function (HOMA-beta), insulinogenic index, and disposition index. RESULTS: Regarding insulin resistance, compared with individuals with the highest adiponectin levels and visceral fat mass < 75th percentile, the fully adjusted odds ratios (ORs) for HOMA-IR >/= 2.5 and Matsuda index < 25th percentile were 13.79 (95% confidence interval, 7.65-24.83) and 8.34 (4.66-14.93), respectively, for individuals with the lowest adiponectin levels and visceral fat >/= 75th percentile. Regarding beta-cell dysfunction, the corresponding ORs for HOMA-beta < 25th percentile, insulinogenic index < 25th percentile, and disposition index < 25th percentile were 1.20 (0.71-2.02), 1.01 (0.61-1.66), and 1.87 (1.15-3.04), respectively. CONCLUSION: Low adiponectin levels and high visceral adiposity might affect insulin resistance and beta-cell dysfunction.