Human Leptin (LEP) Protein

Background

Leptin ( LEP) is an adipokine predominantly produced by adipocytes that plays a key role in regulating energy balance, appetite, and metabolism by acting on the hypothalamus Leptin signals through its receptor (LEPR) to suppress food intake and promote energy expenditure, maintaining body weight homeostasis Circulating leptin levels are proportional to fat mass, with increased levels observed in obesity due to leptin resistance Dysregulation of leptin signaling is associated with metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases Leptin also exerts immunomodulatory functions, influencing the activity of T cells, macrophages, and other immune cells to enhance pro-inflammatory responses It is implicated in autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis and lupus, where elevated leptin promotes chronic inflammation Leptin’s role extends to bone metabolism, reproductive function, and wound healing, highlighting its pleiotropic effects in energy homeostasis and systemic physiology