Although it is secreted by adipocytes, plasma adiponectin concentration is paradoxically lower in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular diseases, obesity, and in smokers.7Weight reduction in obese individuals is accompanied by an increase in plasma adiponectin concentration, suggesting that adipose tissue can exert a negative feedback on adiponectin production and secretion.8, 9. The gene discussed is ADIPOQ; the disease is type 2 diabetes mellitus.