The relationship between adiponectin, progesterone, and temperature across the menstrual cycle

Background: The mechanisms regulating adiponectin, a highly abundant adipokine produced by adipocytes, have not been fully elucidated. Adiponectin levels are significantly higher in women when compared to men, suggesting sex-hormone involvement in its regulation. Previously, we have observed an inverse association between adiponectin and basal body temperature in pregnant women. These findings suggest that states where progesterone and temperature fluctuate, such as the menstrual cycle, could be associated with fluctuating adiponectin levels. Aim: The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between adiponectin, progesterone, and temperature across the menstrual cycle. Subjects and methods: A prospective study was performed. Fifteen non-obese pre-menopausal female subjects, all with regular cycles, and on no medication recorded a daily temperature and underwent blood sampling, indirect calorimetry, and bio-impendence studies in both the follicular and luteal phases of the menstrual cycle. Results: Serum adiponectin levels did not vary significantly across the menstrual cycle or between those who did and did not ovulate. No correlation was found between adiponectin levels and sex steroids, insulin and glucose levels or basal energy expenditure and body composition. Conclusions: Our results indicate that adiponectin is not related to sex steroids or body composition in healthy premenstrual women. (J. Endocrinol. Invest. 32: 279-283, 2009) (C) 2009, Editrice Kurtis