Is Leptin a Physiologically Relevant Regulator of Haematopoiesis?

Overview

Leptin is a protein hormone produced predominantly by adipocytes. Its serum concentrations under stabilisedenergy balance reflect the total body fat content. Serum leptin levels represent an important peripherial signalinforming the hypothalamic satiety center about the body fat stores. Apart from the above mentioned functions thepossible physiological significance of leptin in the regulation of angiogenesis, blood pressure, sexual maturation etc.is suggested. The long isoform of leptin receptor belongs to the cytokine receptors group. The leptin receptors wereidentified in some haematopoietic stem cells. Leptin was found to stimulate the proliferation of haematopoietic stemcells either alone or in combination with some cytokines. Leptin thus seams to represent an additional factor thatplays a role in the haematopoiesis regulation as it was demonstrated by some experimental studies. However, thissuggestion needs to be further confirmed by clinical studies exploring the changes of serum leptin levels in variousphases of haemotological diseases and during their treatment.

Key words:
leptin, haematopoiesis, leptin receptor, cytokines.