according to Salomon et al (2006) Protein Expression and Purification 47, 128-136 and then pegylated A 16-kDa peptide hormone secreted from white adipocytes and implicated in the regulation of food intake and energy balance. Leptin provides the key afferent signal from fat cells in the feedback system that controls body fat stores Synonyms: OB Protein, Obesity Protein, OBS, Obesity factor.