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Correlation between plasma leptin concentration and body fat content in dogs
Mayumi M Sagawa1, Fumio Nakadomo, Tsutomu Honjoh
1Research Center, Nippon Pet Food Co, Ltd, 2020 Umeyama, Asaba, Shizuoka 437-1105, Japan.
American Journal of Veterinary Research
|October 7, 2005
Summary
Plasma leptin concentration is a reliable indicator of body fat in dogs. This study found a strong positive correlation between leptin levels and adiposity, similar to findings in humans and rodents.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Endocrinology
- Animal Physiology
Background:
- Leptin, a hormone produced by adipose tissue, plays a crucial role in regulating energy balance.
- Understanding leptin's role in dogs is important for managing obesity and related health issues.
- Previous research has established leptin's correlation with body fat in humans and rodents.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between plasma leptin concentration and body fat content in a canine model.
- To determine if plasma leptin can serve as a quantitative marker for adiposity in dogs.
Main Methods:
- 20 spayed female Beagles were subjected to controlled feeding and exercise for 21 weeks.
- Body fat content was measured using the deuterium oxide dilution method.
- Plasma leptin concentrations were determined using a canine-specific ELISA test.
Main Results:
- A strong positive correlation (r = 0.920, P < 0.001) was observed between plasma leptin concentration and body fat content (9-60% of body weight).
- Leptin levels ranged from 0.67 to 8.06 ng/ml.
- Correlations with other measured variables (glucose, cholesterol, triglycerides, NEFA) were weaker.
Conclusions:
- Plasma leptin concentration is a quantitative marker of adiposity in dogs.
- The observed relationship in dogs mirrors findings in humans and rodents.
- This suggests leptin's conserved role in energy homeostasis across species.