Question

Why are leptin injections less helpful for most overweight people than for mice with the obese gene?

   Why are leptin injections less helpful for most overweight people than for mice with the obese gene?

Biological Psychology

Biological Psychology

James W. Kalat 12th Edition

Chapter 9, Problem 16

Instant Answer

Solved by Expert Danielle Ashley

05/31/2021

Step 1

It is produced by fat cells and acts on the hypothalamus in the brain to suppress appetite and increase energy expenditure, ultimately leading to weight loss. In mice with the obese gene, leptin injections have been found to be highly effective in reducing body Show more…

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Why are leptin injections less helpful for most overweight people than for mice with the obese gene?

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Key Concepts

Leptin

Leptin is a hormone produced by fat cells that plays an essential role in regulating appetite and energy balance by signaling the brain about the body’s fat stores. Its normal function is to reduce food intake and increase energy expenditure when the body has sufficient fat reserves.

Leptin Resistance

Leptin resistance occurs when the brain fails to respond properly to the increased levels of leptin, a common condition in most overweight individuals. This means that even though leptin is present in high amounts, its signaling is impaired, leading to continued overeating and weight gain.

Genetic Factors in Obesity

Certain genetic mutations, such as those found in the obese (ob) gene in mice, lead to leptin deficiency rather than resistance. In these cases, leptin injections can be effective because they replace the missing hormone, whereas in most overweight humans, the issue is not a lack of leptin, but a diminished response to it.

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