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Variations in glucocorticoid levels within the physiological range affect plasma leptin levels
A Elimam1, U Knutsson, M Brönnegård
1Department of Paediatrics, Huddinge University Hospital, Sweden.
European Journal of Endocrinology
|January 23, 1999
Summary
Cortisol influences leptin levels in healthy men. Dexamethasone (DEX) treatment increased plasma leptin, suggesting a role for cortisol in regulating body fat and appetite hormones.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Metabolism
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Leptin, regulated by the obese gene, influences satiety and body fat via hypothalamic receptors.
- Understanding leptin's hormonal regulation is crucial for comprehending adiposity.
- Leptin regulation in humans remains poorly understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between endogenous cortisol and leptin levels.
- To examine the acute and chronic effects of low-dose dexamethasone (DEX) on plasma leptin in healthy males.
Main Methods:
- Correlated basal plasma leptin and cortisol levels in 12 subjects over 24 hours.
- Administered 0.1 mg DEX twice daily for 2 weeks to assess chronic effects.
- Administered 1 mg DEX at 2300 h to 20 subjects to assess acute effects.
Main Results:
- A significant correlation (r=0.7, P<0.02) was found between basal leptin and cortisol levels.
- Two weeks of DEX treatment increased mean plasma leptin by 50% (P<0.05).
- Acute DEX administration increased fasting leptin by 20% (P<0.002), preserving circadian rhythm but advancing the peak.
Conclusions:
- Physiological variations in cortisol play a role in regulating leptin levels.
- These findings suggest a link between the cortisol-leptin axis and body fat regulation.