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Review
. 2019 Jan 25:12:191-198.
doi: 10.2147/DMSO.S182406. eCollection 2019.

Leptin resistance: underlying mechanisms and diagnosis

Affiliations
Review

Leptin resistance: underlying mechanisms and diagnosis

Olga Gruzdeva et al. Diabetes Metab Syndr Obes. .

Abstract

Leptin and its receptors have been identified as key regulators of body weight and energy homeostasis. A decrease in tissue sensitivity to leptin leads to the development of obesity and metabolic disorders, such as insulin resistance and dyslipidemia. Mechanisms underlying the development of leptin resistance include mutations in the genes encoding leptin and its receptors, as well as proteins involved in self-regulation of leptin synthesis and blood-brain barrier permeability. Leptin resistance encompasses a complex pathophysiological phenomenon with a number of potential research lines. In this review, we analyze the existing data on the methods used to diagnose leptin resistance.

Keywords: leptin; leptin resistance; soluble leptin receptor.

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Conflict of interest statement

Disclosure The authors report no conflicts of interest in this work.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Mechanisms of leptin resistance. Note: Several mechanisms have been identified as potentially underlying leptin resistance, including a gene mutation resulting in structural changes in the leptin molecule, leptin transport across the BBB, and deterioration of leptin-receptor function accompanied by hypothalamic inflammation and endoplasmic reticulum stress. Abbreviation: BBB, blood–brain barrier.

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