Low levels of adiponectin predict worsening of arterial morphology and function

Adipocytokines are under investigation as mediators of cardiovascular risk. In 142 non-diabetic postmenopausal women, we investigated whether plasma levels of adiponectin and leptin are associated with changes in carotid intima-media thickness (IMT) and distensibility as assessed by high-resolution ultrasound. Adiponectin but not leptin correlated weakly with baseline measures of IMT and distensibility. After 12 months, carotid IMT showed a significant progression [0.023 mm (95% CI, 0.014–0.031 mm)] whereas stiffness was unaltered. A threshold was identified for the relation of adiponectin with both progression of IMT and stiffness. Age-adjusted adiponectin levels in the lowest quartile versus second to fourth quartile were related to progression of IMT (odds ratio, 2.99; 95% CI, 1.81–5.09) and stiffness (odds ratio, 1.71; 95% CI, 1.19–4.07). Adjustment for possible confounding factors and intermediates weakened this association only to a minor degree. No such associations were observed for leptin. We conclude that low levels of adiponectin are associated with adverse changes in morphology and function of central arteries over time independently of other cardiovascular risk factors in postmenopausal non-diabetic women.