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Leptin and Obesity

  • Chapter
Obesity

Abstract

Leptin is the first identified adipose-tissue-derived cytokine, which exerts profound functions in the regulation of food intake, energy expenditure, glucose metabolism, reproduction and immune response. A number of cell signaling molecules, including the stress activated signaling pathways, have been demonstrated to mediate leptin-induced biological actions. This chapter summarizes the biology and cell signaling mechanisms of leptin, in particular leptin-mediated energy and metabolic homeostasis. Recent progresses and concerns with regards to the therapeutic applications of leptin in the management of obesity and metabolic syndrome are also discussed.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Molecular Medicine Branch, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA

    Yuanyuan Zhang

  2. Center for Cardiovascular Research and Alternative Medicine, University of Wyoming College of Health Sciences, Laramie, WY, 82071, USA

    Jun Ren

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  1. Yuanyuan Zhang
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  1. School of Science and Technology, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, United Kingdom

    Shamim I. Ahmad

  2. Al Mouwasat Hospital, Jubail, Saudi Arabia

    Syed Khalid Imam

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Zhang, Y., Ren, J. (2016). Leptin and Obesity. In: Ahmad, S., Imam, S. (eds) Obesity. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-19821-7_4

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