Adiponectin but not resistin is associated with insulin resistance-related phenotypes in baboons

Objectives: The hormones adiponectin and resistin have been associated with insulin resistance. This paper analyzed the potential relationship between adiponectin and resistin and insulin resistance‐related phenotypes in baboons. Research Methods and Procedures: One hundred eight adult baboons (84 female and 24 male) were studied. Weight was measured, and a blood sample was collected under fasting conditions for plasma and monocyte isolation. Fasting glucose, insulin, C‐peptide, and adiponectin levels in plasma were measured by standard methods. Insulin resistance was calculated by the homeostasis model assessment index. Resistin mRNA abundance in monocytes was determined by real‐time quantitative reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction. Data were clustered by weight tertiles for statistical analysis. Results: As observed in humans, the insulin resistance‐related phenotypes were related to weight, plasma levels of adiponectin, and C‐peptide. No significant relationship between resistin circulating levels or expression in monocytes and insulin resistance‐related phenotypes was found in baboons. Discussion: These findings suggest that resistin is not associated with insulin resistance. However, previous observations of relationships among weight, adiponectin, and insulin resistance are confirmed.