Adipokines as drug targets in joint and bone disease

White adipose tissue is now recognized to be a multifactorial organ secreting several adipose-derived factors that have been collectively termed 'adipokines'. Adipokines are pleiotropic molecules that contribute to the so-called 'low-grade inflammatory state' of obese subjects creating a cluster of metabolic aberrations including autoimmune and inflammatory diseases that affect joints and bone. The aim of this review is to present knowledge about the role of adipokines in bone and cartilage function, as well as in inflammatory and degenerative joint disease. We discuss clinical implications and then survey attempts to exploit this role for therapeutic gain, which holds potential as a novel approach for drug development in bone and joint disease.