Vnitr Lek 2001, 47(4):245-249

[The importance of leptin in oncology--hypothesis or facts?].

A Gaja, Z Churý: Oddĕlení klinické hematologie Masarykova onkologického ústavu, Brno.

Leptin was described as a protein produced mostly by adipocytes which participates in regulation of caloric intake. This protein has further many physiological regulatory functions especially in hematopoesis and reproduction. The role of leptin in diseases is also considered. Maybe leptin is a part of the pathogenic mechanism or its metabolism can be influenced secondary to disease. Malignant tumours are the important area where leptin can acts. This imagination is supported by recent in vitro studies and some clinical observations. It is consider that some parameters of leptin metabolism can serve as usable marker for diagnosis and monitoring of some malignant tumours--especially breast cancer or some types of leukemia. The authors give a review of actual information of leptin metabolism changes in oncological diseases.