Abstract

For many years, adipose tissue was only considered an energy storage organ, however, it is now known that it plays a key role in the integration of systemic metabolism, and this metabolic function is mediated, in part, by its ability to secrete several proteins, which are called adipokines. Although adipokines are didactically grouped into distinct categories, their actions occur in an integrated manner, causing the participation of TAB in energy homeostasis, immunity, inflammatory response, insulin sensitivity, angiogenesis and blood pressure. When adipose tissue accumulates, the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines increases, thus causing inflammation and the development of insulin resistance, which are triggering factors for chronic non-communicable diseases.