Leptin

By Jamshed Arslan Pharm.D.

AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is best known as a sensor of oxidative stress.  AMPK is activated by increased intracellular AMP levels, which are a result of alterations in cellular metabolism from causes such as hypoxia, changes in ATP, senescence and more.  In cell stress models, AMPK can protect cells from reduced ATP production by altering ATP biosynthetic pathways.  Furthermore, AMPK has implications in reducing inflammatory reactions in apoptosis pathways.

Adiponectin is most well-known for its role in glucose metabolism and fatty acid breakdown. Adiponectin is secreted solely by adipose tissue, and a person with a higher percentage of body fat will express lower levels of Adiponectin. When higher levels of Adiponectin are present, a mouse will show a lack of adipocyte differentiation and a measurable increase in energy expenditure.