Adipocytokine Profiles in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Autoimmune Thyroid Disease: Associations With Metabolic and Hormonal Parameters

Abstract

Summary Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and autoimmune thyroid disease (AITD) are complex disorders involving metabolic, immune, and hormonal dysregulation. Adipocytokines from adipose tissue influence metabolism, inflammation, and immune regulation. We investigated adiponectin, resistin, and visfatin in relation to thyroid, glucose, and metabolic parameters in adults with T2DM, AITD, both conditions, and healthy controls. A total of 385 adults were recruited. Clinical, anthropometric, and laboratory parameters were assessed, including glycemia, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), free thyroxine (fT4), thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), thyroid antibodies, and serum levels of adiponectin, resistin, and visfatin. Correlation and regression analyses were performed, including models adjusted for age, sex, and BMI. Adiponectin was higher in AITD than T2DM (p=0.012), resistin was higher in T2DM&AITD than controls (p=0.004), and visfatin was lower in T2DM than other groups (p<0.001). In T2DM&AITD, adiponectin correlated positively with age and fT4 and negatively with BMI (p=0.028, p=0.034). Resistin correlated inversely with TSH in AITD (p=0.033). Visfatin correlated inversely with thyroid volume in T2DM (p=0.003) and with waist circumference in AITD and T2DM&AITD (p=0.007, p=0.020). After adjustment, resistin remained higher in T2DM&AITD vs. controls (p=0.013) and visfatin and adiponectin remained lower in T2DM vs. controls (p=0.049 and p=0.045, respectively). This study highlights distinct adipocytokine profiles in individuals with metabolic and autoimmune thyroid conditions. Adiponectin, resistin, and visfatin may be potential biomarkers for disease severity and metabolic dysfunction. Further research is needed to elucidate the mechanistic pathways linking adipocytokines to the pathophysiology of T2DM and AITD.