leptin

noun

lep·​tin ˈlep-tən 

: a peptide hormone that is produced by fat cells and plays a role in body weight regulation by acting on the hypothalamus to suppress appetite and burn fat stored in adipose tissue

Examples of leptin in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

In Phase 1 trials, ENV-308 was well tolerated, showed rapid reductions in leptin levels, and prevented weight regain in animal studies. — Amber Raiken, Verywell Health, 16 Sep. 2026

As people lose weight by burning fat and their fat cells deflate, leptin levels nosedive, warning the brain that the body’s energy stores are in decline. — Literary Hub, 17 Aug. 2026

For one, white fat is a powerful endocrine organ, releasing hormones like leptin that reduce appetite, as well as adiponectin, which regulates insulin and blood sugar levels. — Claudio Villanueva, The Conversation, 11 Mar. 2026

Most of his peers were focused on GLP-1, or leptin, or other peptides—molecules made of the same building blocks as proteins, but smaller. — Roxanne Khamsi, The Atlantic, 19 Nov. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Greek leptos slender + English -in entry 1

First Known Use

1995, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for leptin

• lepton

Medical Definition

leptin

noun

lep·​tin ˈlep-tən 

: a peptide hormone that is produced by fat cells and plays a role in body weight regulation by acting on the hypothalamus to suppress appetite and burn fat stored in adipose tissue