Leptin is produced by white adipose tissue. The main central effects are appetite suppression and increased energy consumption. Leptin synthesis is reduced by weight loss, leading to increased energy uptake and reduction in consumption. Leptin has other beneficial effects related to puberty and immunity. Obesity is associated with increased circulatory leptin levels, which is not able to suppress appetite (leptin resistance). However, this resistance is selective, as hyperleptinemia in obesity is associated with harmful effects (insulin resistance, increased sympathetic activity, hypertension, endothelial dysfunction, inflammation, and platelet activation). Hyperleptinemia has been reported as a risk factor for coronary artery disease.
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