The role of adiponectin in reproduction: A Systematic Review

Background: It is well known that adipose tissue can influence puberty, sexual maturation and fertility. Adipose tissue secretes molecules called adipokines which most likely have an endocrine effect on reproductive function. Adiponectin is the main adipokine of adipose tissue largely known for its effect in improving insulin sensitivity. Indeed, adiponectin is able to regulate the functions of gonads and the hypothalamic-pituitary axis. In this review, we focus on the localization and the role of adiponectin on the reproductive tract.Methods: PubMed, Google scholar and Web of Science databases up to February 2017, were searched to select studies on the role of adiponectin in reproduction.Result: Many studies have shown the presence and the role of the adiponectin and their receptors in many reproductive tissues including the central nervous system, ovaries, oviduct, endometrium and testes of different species. Adiponectin regulate ovarian steroidogenesis, gonadotropin release and during IVF protocol, adiponectin improves oocyte maturation and embryo development. Many studies show that adiponectin is expressed in human term placenta. Accordingly, adiponectin could create a favorable environment for embryonic implantation and play a key role in maternal-fetal metabolism communication. However, it is still a matter of debate whether adiponectin express in placenta because some authors are unable to detect adiponectin mRNA expression.Conclusion: Adiponectin, a beneficial adipokine, represents a major link between obesity and reproduction. Higher levels of adiponectin are associated with improved menstrual function and better outcomes in assisted reproductive cycles.

کلیدواژه ها:

Embryo development ، Gonads ، Placenta. ، Reproduction ، Adiponectin