Paradoxical Effects of Adenovirus 36 in the Development of Obesity and Body Metabolic Conditions

Abstract

Background: Viral infections, especially adenovirus 36 (Ad-36) infection, are considered an important factor in the development of obesity. The effects of Ad-36 infection are contradictory. On the one hand, Ad-36 infection leads to weight gain and fat accumulation, increased inflammation, and entry of macrophages into fat cells, causing obesity. On the other hand, it leads to reduced insulin resistance, improved lipid profile, and glycemic control. These effects may partly explain the variability in individual responses to antidiabetic drugs such as metformin and pioglitazone. Moreover, Ad-36 infection may potentially influence the development of new antidiabetic drugs. Further studies i n this field are necessary. © 2025 Isfahan University of Medical Sciences(IUMS). All rights reserved.