Leptin: an immunomodulatory molecule of animals

Abstract

Leptin, an adipocyte-derived cytokine (adipokine), has plethora of physiological roles in the body, particularly in onset of puberty, reproduction and immune function of an animal. Leptin binds with leptin receptor (LEPR) and activates different intracellular signaling pathways to activate downstream gene expression process to execute its functions. The present mini-review focuses on our current understanding about the immunomodulatory and immunodiagnostic potential of leptin in domestic mammalian species. This warrants future research efforts to explore its immunological role that can be exploited for augmenting immunological protection of livestock.