In conclusion, this study demonstrates the unique protective mechanisms of apigenin in treating hepatic insulin resistance, which involves the regulation of fetuin-A gene expression and protein phosphorylation of fetuin-A, and the interaction between fetuin-A and IR, which ultimately leads to the alleviation of obesity-induced insulin resistance in hepatocytes and the liver. The gene discussed is AHSG; the disease is obesity due to melanocortin 4 receptor deficiency.