Adiponectin （APN） is secreted from adipose tissue and contributed to the important protective effects in metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular disease. Level of APN is markedly reduced in patients with obesity,diabetes,hypertension,and coronary artery disease. APN exerts the effects of increasing insulin sensitivity,anti-inflammation,anti-atherosclerosis and protecting myocardium. This review will focus on functions involved in APN and its receptors in diabetes,insulin resistance,metabolic syndrome,cardiovascular disease.