A hormone that regulates energy balance by inhibiting hunger. Synthetic leptin or leptin analogs are studied for their potential to treat obesity, particularly in individuals with leptin deficiency or resistance.
Common Name:
Leptin
Compound Name:
Leptin
Chemical Formula:
Varies based on the isoform; typically represented as a hormone peptide.
Molecular Weight:
Approximately 16 kDa (depending on the specific isoform and post-translational modifications).
Sequence and Amino Acid Composition:
- Sequence: Not typically provided as a simple sequence due to its nature as a full-length hormone rather than a short peptide. It consists of 167 amino acids in humans.
- Amino Acid Profile:
- Leptin’s sequence includes a variety of amino acids critical for its structure and function as a hormone signaling satiety and energy balance.
Structure:
Leptin is a four-helix bundle cytokine. Its structure is crucial for its interaction with the leptin receptor, which mediates its effects on energy balance and metabolism.
Synthesis Method:
Leptin is naturally synthesized in adipose tissue. For research or therapeutic use, it is produced via recombinant DNA technology in E. coli or mammalian cell expression systems.
Solubility:
Soluble in aqueous buffers; solubility can depend on the buffer composition and pH.
Stability:
Stable under refrigeration (2-8°C) in lyophilized form. Once reconstituted, it should be used within a specified timeframe to maintain activity.
Function:
Leptin is primarily involved in regulating energy balance by inhibiting hunger, which in turn diminishes fat storage in adipocytes. It acts on the brain’s hypothalamus to regulate appetite and energy expenditure.
Benefits and Uses:
- Involved in the regulation of body weight and metabolism.
- Therapeutically explored for the treatment of obesity and disorders related to leptin deficiency.
- Potential implications in studies related to diabetes, energy balance, and satiety regulation.
Side Effects:
Leptin therapy can cause immune reactions, as well as potential side effects related to its metabolic effects, including possible changes in glucose regulation.
Regulatory Status:
Leptin (recombinant leptin, brand name Myalept) is FDA-approved for the treatment of complications arising from leptin deficiency in patients with congenital or acquired generalized lipodystrophy.
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