[Leptin: from gene to energy balance]
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Updated: Jul 7, 2026

Mechanism of Regulation of Adipocyte Numbers in Adult Organisms Through Differentiation and Apoptosis Homeostasis
Published on: June 3, 2016
Arnaud Basdevant1, Cécile Ciangura
1Université Pierre et Marie Curie-Paris 6, UMRS Inserm 755, Paris, F-75006 France. arnaud.basdevant@htd.aphp.fr
Abstract:
The amount of stored energy (fat mass) results from a complex interplay of biological factors responding to variations in energy intake and expenditure that depend on behavior and environmental conditions. Leptin plays a key role in this homeostasis. This adipocyte-derived cytokine not only informs the brain about the level of energy stores but is also involved in energy metabolism in the periphery, as well as in reproduction, bone metabolism and immunity. Complete leptin deficiency is very rare, while partial leptin deficiency is more frequent. Hyperleptinemia is frequent in common obesity, indicating a state of leptin resistance. Therapeutic use of leptin remains limited.
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