Leptin inhibits food intake and stimulates energy expenditure. Leptin also has thermogenic actions and regulates enzymes of fatty acid oxidation. Severe hereditary obesity in rodents and humans is caused by defects in leptin production. In addition to its critical role in the physiologic regulation of body weight leptin has a variety of other physiologic and pathologic functions resembling those of cytokines. These functions include the regulation of hematopoiesis, angiogenesis, wound healing, inflammation, and immune responses.
Intended for research use only. Not for use in human, therapeutic, or diagnostic applications.