leptin

(noun)

a protein hormone produced in adipose tissue; it plays a role in regulating appetite and metabolism

Related Terms

Examples of leptin in the following topics:

  • Organs with Secondary Endocrine Functions

    • It produces the hormone leptin in response to food intake.
    • Leptin increases the activity of anorexigenic neurons and decreases that of orexigenic neurons, producing a feeling of satiety after eating, thus affecting appetite and reducing the urge for further eating.
    • Leptin is also associated with reproduction.
    • Extremely thin females may enter puberty late; however, if adipose levels increase, more leptin will be produced, improving fertility.