Regulation of leptin gene expression and secretion by steroid hormones

Darrell W. Brann, Liesl De Sevilla, Pedro L. Zamorano, Virendra B. Mahesh

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

57 Scopus citations

Abstract

Previous work has shown that 17 β-estradiol is the primary ovarian signal regulating body weight and adiposity, although its mechanisms of action remain unclear. We hypothesized that 17 β-estradiol could enhance leptin levels as a mechanism of its anorectic effects. Administration of 5 μg 17 β-estradiol subcutaneously (s.c.) for 2 days significantly elevated leptin mRNA levels in adipose tissue as compared to vehicle controls (P < 0.003). A time-course administration of estrogen showed increased mRNA levels in adipose tissue between 6 and 12 h after estrogen injection as compared to vehicle controls (P < 0.03). Corresponding to the increased leptin mRNA levels at 6 and 12 h, elevated plasma leptin levels were observed at 12 h after estrogen administration as compared to controls (P < 0.05). Administration of progesterone (1 mg/rat) after estradiol injection did not enhance the elevated leptin mRNA levels in adipose tissue. Serum leptin levels from cycling rats did not differ significantly between metestrous and proestrous animals. In conclusion, the present studies demonstrate that 17 β-estradiol can regulate leptin gene expression and secretion in the female rat, thus providing a better understanding of the possible anorectic effect of estrogens. Copyright (C) 1999 Elsevier Science Inc.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)659-663
Number of pages5
JournalSteroids
Volume64
Issue number9
DOIs
StatePublished - Sep 1999

Keywords

  • Leptin
  • Ovariectomy
  • Rat
  • Steroid

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Biochemistry
  • Molecular Biology
  • Endocrinology
  • Pharmacology
  • Clinical Biochemistry
  • Organic Chemistry

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Regulation of leptin gene expression and secretion by steroid hormones'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this