Leptin receptor signaling: pathways to leptin resistance.

摘要: The identification of spontaneous mutations in the leptin- and leptin receptor (ObR)-encoding ob db gene, respectively, opened up a new field obesity research. Leptin, an adipocyte-derived hormone, mirrors body's fat stores thereby informs brain about energy status. In hypothalamus, triggers specific neuronal subpopulations, like POMC AgRP/NPY neurons, activates several intracellular signaling events, including JAK/STAT, MAPK, PI3K mTOR pathway, which eventually translates into decreased food intake increased expenditure. Leptin is also involved regulation other physiological processes reproduction, bone homeostasis immune function. Here, we review pathways that are activated upon ObR activation, how expression controlled molecular mechanisms leading to resistance, i.e. inability adequately respond elevated levels therefore primary risk factor for obesity.