What is a consequence of altered levels of leptin?

• A. Increased metabolism
• B. Decreased appetite
• C. Increased appetite and potential weight gain
• D. Increased fat breakdown

Answer: (C)

Leptin is a hormone primarily produced by adipose (fat) tissue that plays a critical role in regulating energy balance and appetite. Under normal circumstances, leptin levels increase with higher fat mass, signaling to the brain that the body has sufficient energy stores. When leptin levels are altered, particularly when they are insufficient or resistant to its effects, individuals may experience increased appetite. This is because the body misinterprets low leptin levels as a sign of starvation, prompting a hunger response to encourage food intake. Over time, this increased appetite can lead to weight gain as individuals consume more calories than they expend.

In contrast, increased metabolism, decreased appetite, and increased fat breakdown are typically associated with normal or balanced leptin signaling. If leptin levels are high or functioning correctly, they would generally support these processes rather than lead to negative outcomes like increased appetite. Therefore, the consequence of altered leptin levels resulting in increased appetite and potential weight gain aligns with the physiological effects observed in scenarios of leptin deficiency or resistance.