The World of Adipokines: Their Presence and Distribution in the Organism and Their Relevance in Veterinary Medicine

The word “adipokines” generally identifies all the molecules synthesized and secreted by the adipose tissue. This evidence suggests that the adipose tissue can be no longer seen only as a storage tissue but also as a real “endocrine organ”. The adipokines carry out a local action (autocrine/paracrine) on the same producing tissue but also a systemic one (endocrine) on different target organs and tissues. The numerous studies conducted in this regard and the evidence of their distribution, often ubiquitous, with the presence of production sites additional to the adipose tissue, have allowed us to hypothesize and, in some cases, to demonstrate their involvement in the functional control of the organs where they have been highlighted. Original manuscripts, review articles, and short communications and commentaries, which address any aspects of adipokines in domestic and wild animals, are invited for this special issue. Manuscripts that use a multidisciplinary approach and address any aspect of adipokines with a direct impact on animal welfare are particularly welcome.