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Leptin Dysregulation

Meaning

Leptin dysregulation is a metabolic state characterized by an impaired signaling or diminished action of the adipokine hormone leptin, which is primarily produced by adipocytes to signal satiety to the central nervous system. In the most common clinical scenario, this presents as leptin resistance, where chronically elevated levels of the hormone fail to suppress appetite or increase energy expenditure. This functional defect disrupts the body’s crucial energy balance system, leading to persistent hyperphagia, reduced basal metabolism, and often contributing significantly to the pathogenesis of obesity.