Adipose tissue, both intricate and fundamental to physiological functions,
comprises cell types, including adipocytes, pivotal in secreting bioactive
peptides known as ‘adipokines.’ Apelin (APLN), Visfatin (VSFTN), and Irisin (IRSN)
are novel adipokines involved in regulating energy, carbohydrate, protein, and
lipid metabolism. APLN acts as an endogenous ligand for G-protein-coupled
receptors, VSFTN is essential in nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD)
biosynthesis, and IRSN is released from skeletal muscle and adipose tissues. Their
influence spans various physiological domains, including insulin resistance and
sensitivity, cardiovascular functions, angiogenesis, and reproductive systems.
This review focuses on the potential roles of APLN, VSFTN, and IRSN in energy
regulation mechanisms related to farm animal production. Despite accumulating
evidence of their significance, comprehensive understanding is still emerging,
with most studies based on model organisms. Thus, there’s a pressing need
for targeted research on farm animals. Addressing these knowledge gaps
could pave the way for improved health strategies, reproductive efficiency, and
productivity in farm animals. Future research should focus on understanding
the multifaceted interactions of these adipokines and their implications for
promoting sustainable and effective animal production.