Review
The role of tissue “environmental” adipokines in the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis
R. Shumnalieva1, K. Dermendzhiev2, S.V. Monov3
- Clinic of Rheumatology, University Hospital St. Anna, Sofia; Department of Rheumatology, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University, Sofia; and Medical Faculty, Sofia University, Sofia, Bulgaria. rshumnalieva@yahoo.com
- Faculty of Medicine, Medical University, Sofia, Bulgaria.
- Clinic of Rheumatology, University Hospital St. Anna, Sofia; and Department of Rheumatology, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University, Sofia, Bulgaria.
CER18
Review
Received: 21/07/2025
Accepted : 14/08/2025
In Press: 05/09/2025
Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic, systemic autoimmune disease characterised by persistent synovial inflammation, joint destruction, and functional disability. The disease aetiology is multifactorial, involving genetic, environmental, and immunological components. Recent research has highlighted the significant role of metabolic factors in modulating inflammatory pathways in RA. Among these, adipocytokines, bioactive molecules secreted by adipose tissue, have emerged as key mediators linking metabolism and immune responses. Adipocytokines such as leptin, adiponectin, resistin, and visfatin not only regulate energy homeostasis but also as tissue “environmental” molecules influence immune cell activity and cytokine production. Their dysregulated expression in RA patients suggests a potential role in disease pathogenesis and progression. Understanding the complex interplay between adipocytokines and inflammatory mechanisms in RA may open new avenues for targeted therapeutic strategies and biomarkers for disease activity.
