What is one of the main functions of leptin?

Leptin is a hormone primarily produced by adipose (fat) tissue, and one of its main functions is to help control body weight. It acts as a signaling molecule to the hypothalamus in the brain, providing information about the body's energy stores. When fat stores are sufficient, leptin levels increase, which signals the brain to reduce appetite and increase energy expenditure. This mechanism is crucial for maintaining energy balance and avoiding excessive weight gain.

The regulation of body weight through leptin involves not only the hunger signals but also the modulation of metabolism and energy expenditure. This means that when leptin levels are adequate, the body is more likely to maintain a healthy weight by encouraging a stable appetite and promoting calorie burning. Understanding this function of leptin is significant for comprehending energy balance and weight management strategies.

Other choices focus on functions like hunger stimulation, sleep regulation, and digestion, but these are not the primary roles of leptin. While it may have some indirect effects on these aspects, its principal role in the body revolves around energy regulation and maintaining body weight.