This finding led to the discoveries of the obesity gene (ob) and a number of hormones derived from adipocytes such as leptin, adiponectin, and resistin, and various pro- and anti-inflammatory molecules termed adipokines, which redefined the endocrine and metabolic function of adipose tissue.19 These molecules have been shown to have autocrine/paracrine effects locally as well as an endocrine effect systemically, allowing them to act at the metabolically relevant organs, including the brain, liver, muscle, adipose tissue and pancreas. The gene discussed is LEP; the disease is obesity disorder.