Adropin

Adropin is a peptide hormone encoded by the ENHO gene. It is primarily produced in the liver and brain, but can also be found in other tissues, including skeletal muscle and adipose tissue. Adropin plays a role in regulating energy homeostasis, glucose metabolism, and lipid metabolism.

Research suggests that adropin can improve insulin sensitivity and glucose tolerance. Studies have shown that circulating adropin levels are often reduced in individuals with obesity, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic syndrome, indicating a potential link between adropin deficiency and these conditions. Conversely, increasing adropin levels has been observed to improve metabolic health in animal models.

The precise mechanisms of adropin action are still being investigated. It is thought to interact with various receptors and signaling pathways to exert its metabolic effects. Evidence suggests that adropin can influence fatty acid oxidation, glucose uptake, and insulin secretion.

Future research will likely focus on clarifying the signaling pathways involved and exploring the therapeutic potential of adropin or adropin-based therapies for the treatment of metabolic disorders. The use of adropin as a biomarker for metabolic health is also an area of ongoing investigation.