The role of adiponectin in gastric cancer

Adiponectin, an adipokine synthesized by adipose tissue, has garnered significant attention in biomedical investigations. Research on its implications suggests that reduced adiponectin levels in the bloodstream might serve as a potential predisposing factor for several types of cancers, including gastric cancer. Although many studies on adiponectin levels in gastric cancer patients have been reported, its predictive role as a biomarker remains controversial. Moreover, the significance of adiponectin receptor expression as a prognostic factor in gastric cancer tissues varies across different research studies, and the precise mechanism by which adiponectin influences the initiation and advancement of gastric cancer remains to be fully elucidated. Furthermore, the anti-inflammatory and postoperative anti-infective effects of adiponectin are worth further investigation. Based on existing studies, it is commonly suggested that in the presence of low adiponectin levels, the stomach might be vulnerable to stimulation or damage from certain carcinogens, promoting gastric cancer development and progression. Considering its complex systemic effects and high serum concentration, adiponectin might serve as a homeostasis regulator and not necessarily as an anti-cancer factor. In this review, we explore the current research available on adiponectin in relation to gastric cancer and discuss its role and corresponding receptors involved in gastric cancer.