Final answer:
Leptin increases the production of CART/alpha-MSH by activating anorexigenic neurons, which helps to inhibit appetite and promote a feeling of satiety after food intake.
Step-by-step explanation:
The effect of leptin on CART/alpha-MSH is to increase the production of CART/alpha-MSH. Leptin is a protein hormone secreted by adipose tissues, which are a type of connective tissue found throughout the body. This hormone plays a crucial role in regulating appetite and food intake. Leptin promotes satiety by increasing the activity of anorexigenic neurons, which leads to increased production of CART (cocaine- and amphetamine-regulated transcript) and alpha-MSH (alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone). These substances work together to inhibit appetite and reduce further eating.
Since leptin is secreted in response to food consumption, it helps maintain the balance between food intake and energy expenditure. When the body has more adipose tissue and consequently more fat reserves, more leptin is released, signaling a feeling of fullness and thus decreasing hunger. Conversely, less adipose tissue means less leptin is available, leading to increased hunger and the potential to eat more. However, in cases of obesity, leptin resistance can occur, which impairs the signaling for satiety despite high levels of fat reserves, leading to overeating.