The Association of Adiponectin and Visceral Fat with Insulin Resistance and β-Cell Dysfunction

BACKGROUND: Obesity is a risk factor for metabolic abnormalities. We investigated the relationship of adiponectin levels and visceral adiposity with insulin resistance and β-cell dysfunction. METHODS: This cross-sectional study enrolled 1,347 participants (501 men and 846 women aged 30–64 years) at the Cardiovascular and Metabolic Diseases Etiology Research Center. Serum adiponectin levels and visceral fat were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kits and dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, respectively. Insulin resistance was evaluated using the homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) and Matsuda insulin sensitivity index. β-cell dysfunction was evaluated using the homeostatic model assessment of β-cell function (HOMA-β), insulinogenic index, and disposition index. RESULTS: Regarding insulin resistance, compared with individuals with the highest adiponectin levels and visceral fat mass < 75th percentile, the fully adjusted odds ratios (ORs) for HOMA-IR ≥ 2.5 and Matsuda index < 25th percentile were 13.79 (95% confidence interval, 7.65–24.83) and 8.34 (4.66–14.93), respectively, for individuals with the lowest adiponectin levels and visceral fat ≥ 75th percentile. Regarding β-cell dysfunction, the corresponding ORs for HOMA-β < 25th percentile, insulinogenic index < 25th percentile, and disposition index < 25th percentile were 1.20 (0.71–2.02), 1.01 (0.61–1.66), and 1.87 (1.15–3.04), respectively. CONCLUSION: Low adiponectin levels and high visceral adiposity might affect insulin resistance and β-cell dysfunction.