Inflammation may be a core mechanism of MS,[9] and it is a link between obesity and insulin resistance.[24] Adipose tissue macrophages are increased in obesity and associated with low grade inflammation.[25] IL-6 and TNF-α secreted by the macrophages are the possible pathogenesis of insulin resistance.[26] Meanwhile, insulin resistance itself increases WBC.[27] These cytokines also increase WBC count,[26] which is a marker of inflammation. The gene discussed is TNF; the disease is obesity due to melanocortin 4 receptor deficiency.