Leptin (/'lɛptɪn/) is a hormone manufactured by fat tissue which plays a crucial role in regulating appetite and metabolism. The spelling of "Leptin" derives from its Greek origins where "leptos" means thin or small and "-in" stands for a compound substance. The IPA transcription of the word "Leptin" indicates that it is pronounced as /'lɛptɪn/. Understanding the correct spelling and pronunciation of this word is important for researchers and healthcare professionals who study and treat obesity-related disorders.
Leptin is a protein hormone primarily secreted by fat cells (adipocytes) but also produced in other tissues such as the placenta, ovaries, and skeletal muscle. It plays a crucial role in regulating energy balance and body weight by suppressing appetite and promoting energy expenditure. Functioning as a hormone, it acts as a signal to the brain, particularly the hypothalamus, to regulate food intake and energy expenditure.
Leptin levels are directly correlated to amount of body fat, with higher levels produced by adipose tissue. When released into the bloodstream, it travels to the brain where it binds to specific receptors (leptin receptors) to transmit signals related to energy balance. By reducing hunger and increasing energy expenditure, leptin helps to maintain a healthy body weight.
Leptin deficiency or resistance can have significant effects on energy homeostasis and body weight regulation. In cases of leptin deficiency, individuals may experience an increase in appetite and a reduced ability to burn calories, leading to severe obesity. Leptin resistance, on the other hand, occurs when the body fails to respond to the hormone's signals, causing a persistent feeling of hunger and reduced energy expenditure.
Leptin is considered a promising target for potential therapeutic interventions in weight management and metabolic disorders such as obesity and type 2 diabetes. By understanding its role and mechanisms of action, researchers may be able to develop medications that can effectively regulate appetite, metabolism, and body weight.
The word "leptin" is derived from the Greek word "leptos", meaning thin or slender. It was named by researchers Jeffrey M. Friedman and Rudolph Leibel in 1994 when they discovered the hormone that regulates body weight and metabolism in mice and later in humans. The name "leptin" was chosen to reflect the hormone's role in controlling weight and promoting leanness.