CTRP5 (C1qTNF-related protein 5, C1QTNF5) belongs to a highly conserved family of adiponectin paralogs. CTRP5 mediates activation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) in muscle and liver cells, thereby regulating glucose and lipid metabolism. Serum levels of CTRP5 are significantly higher in obese/diabetic animal models compared to normal controls. Furthermore, CTRP5 may be a putative biomarker for mitochondrial dysfunction. Defects in C1QTNF5 are a cause of late-onset retinal degeneration (LORD).