Adiponectin, an adipocyte-derived hormone, is believed to play an important role in regulating hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia, and endothelial dysfunction in humans, all of which probably contribute to certain markedly increased risks associated with obesity-related disorders, e.g., atherosclerosis and diabetes [11]. The gene discussed is ADIPOQ; the disease is obesity due to melanocortin 4 receptor deficiency.