Adiponectin is a 244 amino acid protein that belongs to the soluble defense collagen superfamily. It has a collagen-like domain and a complement factor C1q-like globular domain . Adiponectin exists in multiple forms, including:
The trimeric form is particularly significant as it serves as the building block for the higher-order complexes found circulating in serum .
Adiponectin is involved in various physiological processes, including:
The levels of adiponectin in the bloodstream are inversely correlated with body fat percentage in adults. Lower levels of adiponectin are associated with obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases . The trimeric form of adiponectin is generally more abundant in human serum compared to other forms .
Recombinant adiponectin, particularly the trimeric form, is produced using various expression systems, including HEK293 cells . This recombinant form is used in research to study its structure, function, and potential therapeutic applications. The recombinant trimeric form is highly purified and stable, making it suitable for various biochemical assays .
Recombinant adiponectin is widely used in: