Together, these data indicate that PTEN deletion in hepatocytes and/or the resulting hepatic phenotypes (e.g., IR and steatosis) triggers the alteration of the expression of a whole network of hepatokines, including AHSG, ANGPTL4, FETUB, FGF21, IGFBP1, IGFBP2 and LECT2, which likely affect insulin sensitivity and/or the lipid/glucose metabolism in distal peripheral organs. The gene discussed is LECT2; the disease is steatosis.