The Effects of Adiponectin on Bone Metabolism

Osteoporosis and its related bone fractures are growing medical problems, especially in industrial countries, and thus the knowledge of regulation of bone metabolism is critical to develop therapeutic approaches. Bone adipocytes share common mesenchymal precursors with osteoblasts and chondrocytes and their numbers in bone marrow are altered in various pathophysiological conditions. Several findings suggest that accelerated adipogenesis in bone marrow, known as fatty marrow, is associated with the progression of osteoporosis. Apart from its demonstrated antiatherosclerogenic and insulin-sensitizing actions, the adipokine adiponectin and its receptors have been shown to be expressed in bone tissues and participate in bone metabolism. Here we review recent findings regarding the regulation of bone metabolism by adiponectin and its receptors and the underlying mechanisms. We also provide future perspectives for research.