Leptin Human
Description
Product Specs
Product Science Overview
Leptin was discovered in 1994 by Jeffrey Friedman and his colleagues at Rockefeller University. The discovery was a significant breakthrough in understanding the mechanisms of obesity and energy balance . Leptin is encoded by the LEP gene and is primarily secreted by adipose tissue into the bloodstream .
The primary function of leptin is to communicate the body’s energy status to the brain. When fat stores are sufficient, leptin levels are high, signaling the brain to reduce appetite and increase energy expenditure . Conversely, when fat stores are low, leptin levels drop, triggering an increase in appetite and a decrease in energy expenditure .
Leptin exerts its effects by binding to leptin receptors, which are found in various tissues, including the hypothalamus in the brain . The hypothalamus plays a central role in regulating hunger and energy expenditure. When leptin binds to its receptors in the hypothalamus, it activates signaling pathways that reduce food intake and increase energy expenditure .
In individuals with obesity, leptin levels are typically elevated due to the increased fat mass . However, despite high levels of leptin, many obese individuals experience leptin resistance, a condition in which the brain does not respond adequately to leptin signals . This resistance leads to continued overeating and reduced energy expenditure, perpetuating the cycle of weight gain .
Beyond its role in energy balance, leptin is involved in various physiological processes, including immune function, reproduction, and bone metabolism . Leptin receptors are expressed in multiple tissues, indicating that leptin’s effects extend beyond the regulation of appetite and energy expenditure .
Research on leptin has provided valuable insights into the regulation of body weight and the pathophysiology of obesity . Understanding leptin’s mechanisms has opened up potential therapeutic avenues for treating obesity and related metabolic disorders. For instance, targeting leptin signaling pathways could help develop treatments that enhance leptin sensitivity or mimic its effects .
