Abstract
The circulating protein adiponectin has been the subject of immense interest ever since it was first discovered in the mid-1990s. The protein is uniquely produced and secreted by mature adipocytes and is believed to have important anti-inflammatory and anti-diabetic effects; low levels have been shown to be predictive of future type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. This review discusses adiponectin in relation to obesity, inflammation, insulin resistance and atherosclerosis.