A natural substance secreted by fat cells can protect blood vessels from the damaging effects of inflammation, one of the factors that contribute to heart disease. Researchers at Jefferson Medical College have shown for the first time in an animal model that the substance – a protein called adiponectin – helps prevent immune system white blood cells from binding to the inside of blood vessel walls. Harnessing adiponectin’s properties, the scientists suggest, may someday help protect against the blood vessel damage so prevalent in patients with obesity and diabetes.
