The effect of leptin deficiency on T lymphocytes and dendritic cells
Abstract
Leptin is secreted by adipose tissue and primarily exerts its effect on the hypothalamus where it functions to regulate appetite and influence energy expenditure. Studies have demonstrated that leptin can also affect the immune system, in particular, T cell-mediated responses. Leptin-deficient mice are extremely lymphopenic; thus, their poor T cell reactivity may be a function of T cell numbers. The poor induction of T cell responses in leptin-deficient mice may also be due to an inability of antigen presenting cells (APCs) to activate T cells. It has been demonstrated that macrophages from leptin-deficient mice have several biochemical abnormalities, yet their functional capabilities have not been ascertained. The more relevant APCs, the dendritic cells (DCs), are the only professional APC capable of activating naïve T cells and their associated responses. We have therefore assessed whether the absence of leptin directly alters T cell reactivity and DC function. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)
Subject Area
Immunology
Recommended Citation
Perez, Cynthia L, "The effect of leptin deficiency on T lymphocytes and dendritic cells" (2004). ETD Collection for University of Texas, El Paso. AAIEP10802.
https://scholarworks.utep.edu/dissertations/AAIEP10802