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Updated: May 12, 2026

Experimental Approach to Examine Leptin Signaling in the Carotid Bodies and its Effects on Control of Breathing
Published on: October 25, 2019
Lasker lauds leptin.
Jeffrey S Flier1, Eleftheria Maratos-Flier
1Office of the Dean, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA. jeffrey_flier@hms.harvard.edu
Douglas Coleman and Jeffrey Friedman discovered leptin, a hormone regulating appetite and body weight. This breakthrough in physiology advanced molecular and genetic research into obesity.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Physiology
- Genetics
Background:
- The discovery of leptin, a key hormone in appetite and body weight regulation, is highlighted.
- This award recognizes the foundational work by Douglas Coleman and Jeffrey Friedman.
Discussion:
- Leptin's identification revealed a critical physiological system governing energy balance.
- The discovery has profound implications for understanding and potentially treating obesity.
Key Insights:
- Leptin acts as a crucial signaling molecule between adipose tissue and the brain.
- Understanding leptin's role has opened new avenues for metabolic research.
Outlook:
- Future research directions include exploring leptin's therapeutic potential in metabolic disorders.
- This discovery continues to drive innovation in molecular and genetic approaches to obesity research.
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