Relationship Between Glycemic Exposure and Serum Adipokine Profiles in Type 2 Diabetes

Abstract

Adipokines are signaling molecules produced by adipose tissue that participate in glucose regulation, inflammation, and insulin sensitivity. Chronic hyperglycemia may influence adipokine secretion and contribute to metabolic dysfunction in individuals with type 2 diabetes. This study evaluated the relationship between glycemic exposure and serum adipokine profiles in adults with type 2 diabetes. A cross-sectional study included 150 adults with established type 2 diabetes. HbA1c, fasting glucose, fasting insulin, and selected serum adipokines including adiponectin, leptin, and resistin were measured. Participants were categorized according to HbA1c levels. Higher glycemic exposure was associated with lower adiponectin and higher leptin and resistin concentrations. HbA1c demonstrated an inverse correlation with adiponectin and positive correlations with leptin and resistin. After adjustment for age, sex, BMI, diabetes duration, and waist circumference, HbA1c remained independently associated with the adipokine profile. These findings suggest that greater glycemic exposure may be associated with unfavorable adipokine patterns in adults with type 2 diabetes.