leptin

[ lep-tin ]

noun

1. a hormone that is thought to suppress appetite and speed up metabolism.

leptin

/ ˈlɛptɪn /

noun

1. a protein, produced by fat cells in the body, that acts on the brain to regulate the amount of additional fat laid down in the body

leptin

/ lĕp′tĭn′ /

1. A peptide hormone and neurotransmitter produced by fat cells and involved in the regulation of appetite.

Word History and Origins

Origin of leptin¹

1995–2000; < Greek leptós small, thin + -in ²

Word History and Origins

Origin of leptin¹

C20: from lepto- + -in

Example Sentences

The research, led by the lab of Richard Simerly, Louise B. McGavock Professor and professor of molecular physiology and biophysics, also supports a novel role for leptin in specifying the development of neural circuits involved in autonomic regulation and food intake.

From Science Daily

Leptin is a hormone that, in adults, regulates hunger by providing a sensation of satiety and helps maintain body weight on a long-term basis.

From Science Daily

In the weeks following birth, however, leptin also helps direct the formation of circuits that control homeostatic functions.

From Science Daily

The results reported in this paper should expand our appreciation of the developmental role that hormones such as leptin play in specifying the organization of neural circuits that control essential functions related to metabolic health and expression of disease risk.

From Science Daily

Two hormones regulate how full or hungry we feel – ghrelin triggers feelings of hunger, while leptin makes us feel full.

From Salon