Use of anti-leptin or anti-leptin receptor antibodies as blockers of immune response

Leptin, a horm one produced primarily by adipose cells, is known to be critically involved in regulating nutrient intake and metabolism. Increasing evidence has indicated that leptin also plays crucial role in modulating immune response. Several studies including our recent findings have demonstrated that leptin can enhance the proliferation and production of proinflammatory cytokines in T-cells, macrophages and dendritic cells. More recent studies have suggested that leptin is also a negative signal for the proliferation and expansion of regulatory T-cells (Tregs), a specific subset involved in the control of immune and autoimmune responses. Strategies aimed at interfering with the leptin axis such as leptin-or leptin-receptor neutralizing antibodies have been suggested as feasible molecular tools to dampen chronic inflammation and autoimmunity. We will analyze the most recent advances in the field and the possibility to utilize this approach as novel therapeutic strategy.