What is the Origin of Leptin Ghrelin Signaling?

This term is a clinical shorthand for the neuroendocrine axis that controls energy intake, emerging from the discovery of leptin in the mid-1990s and ghrelin shortly thereafter. The joint term highlights their opposing yet complementary roles in the complex homeostatic regulation of body mass. Understanding this signaling is central to the clinical management of obesity and metabolic syndrome.

What is the Mechanism of Leptin Ghrelin Signaling?

Ghrelin acts on the arcuate nucleus of the hypothalamus to stimulate the production of neuropeptide Y (NPY), promoting feeding behavior. Conversely, leptin binds to its receptors in the same region to inhibit NPY and stimulate pro-opiomelanocortin (POMC) neurons, leading to reduced food intake and increased energy expenditure. Effective signaling requires maintaining cellular sensitivity to both hormones, as chronic over-nutrition can lead to leptin resistance, effectively silencing the satiety signal.

Leptin Ghrelin Signaling

Meaning

Leptin Ghrelin Signaling refers to the critical, reciprocal communication pathway involving the hormones leptin and ghrelin, which collectively regulate energy balance, appetite, and long-term body weight homeostasis. Leptin, secreted by adipose tissue, signals satiety and long-term energy sufficiency to the hypothalamus, while ghrelin, secreted by the stomach, acts as a potent orexigenic signal, stimulating hunger. The balance and sensitivity of this signaling system are fundamental determinants of metabolic health and successful weight management.