This test measures the concentration of resistin, an adipokine primarily secreted by macrophages in humans, which is involved in regulating inflammation, insulin resistance, and metabolic processes. Initially identified in relation to obesity and type 2 diabetes, resistin is now recognized as a key link between metabolic dysfunction and chronic low-grade inflammation. It is considered a biomarker with both endocrine and immunomodulatory properties, functioning at the intersection of innate immunity and energy homeostasis. Elevated resistin levels have been linked to cardiovascular disease, atherosclerosis, insulin resistance, and inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease.
In metabolic regulation, resistin has been linked to disrupting insulin signaling pathways, resulting in reduced glucose uptake and systemic insulin resistance. This effect is particularly pronounced in individuals with visceral obesity, where macrophage infiltration into fat tissue enhances resistin secretion. Resistin also affects liver glucose production and fat metabolism, playing a role in the development of metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes. Elevated resistin levels are often observed in individuals with obesity, high blood sugar, or abnormal lipid levels, and they are associated with markers of insulin resistance such as high fasting insulin and HOMA-IR.
Beyond its role in metabolism, resistin exhibits significant pro-inflammatory effects. It stimulates the production of cytokines such as TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β and upregulates adhesion molecules and endothelin-1, contributing to endothelial dysfunction and vascular inflammation. These mechanisms make resistin a potential marker and contributor to atherosclerotic plaque formation and cardiovascular events. In chronic inflammatory diseases, resistin levels tend to be elevated, supporting its role in immune cell recruitment and cytokine signaling cascades. In systemic lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis, increased resistin has been linked to disease activity and severity.
Low resistin levels are less commonly reported but may be observed in individuals with lean body mass, low systemic inflammation, or in specific hormonal or genetic contexts that downregulate resistin expression. While low levels are not usually associated with pathology, they provide contrast in clinical interpretation, especially in metabolic studies or trials evaluating the impact of lifestyle or pharmacological interventions.
As a multifunctional adipokine, resistin integrates signals from adipose tissue, immune cells, and metabolic organs. Its measurement offers insight into the complex interaction of metabolic and inflammatory pathways and is increasingly viewed as a prognostic marker in metabolic, cardiovascular, and autoimmune diseases.
Important Note
The measurement of resistin is only performed for research purposes in the context of clinical studies and experimental protocols.
