Leptin is a hormone predominantly produced by adipose (fat) tissue that helps regulate energy balance by inhibiting hunger. It communicates with the hypothalamus in the brain to signal satiety and control food intake.
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Leptin levels are directly proportional to body fat; higher fat stores result in higher leptin levels.
The hypothalamus is the primary brain region where leptin exerts its appetite-suppressing effects.
Leptin resistance, often seen in obesity, occurs when the body does not respond effectively to high levels of leptin.
Leptin also plays a role in regulating metabolism and energy expenditure.
Mutations in the gene encoding leptin or its receptor can lead to severe obesity.