Abstract: Many adipokines secreted by adipose tissue could regulate the testicular functions by neuroendocrine or direct action. Adipokine receptors have already been found in testis. Leptin affects the development of testis, androgen synthesis and spermatogenesis in all levels of hypothalamic pituitary gonadal axis. Adiponectin by the receptors expressed in Leydig cells can regulate androgen production, and protect these cells through its anti-inflammatory action. Resistin and chemerin are also involved in the regulation of testosterone synthesis. Obesity can change the secretion of adipokines, which induces the decreased insulin sensitivity, chronic inflammation, vascular disease and other metabolic diseases. All of them could be related with hypoandrogenism and male infertility.

Key words: Adipokines, Receptors, adipokine, Testis, Leptin, Infertility, male, Obesity