Final answer:
Leptin is a satiety hormone secreted by adipose tissue, which helps in regulating energy balance by inhibiting appetite. High body fat leads to more leptin production and less hunger, while less body fat causes the opposite effect. Leptin is also crucial for normal reproductive function.
Step-by-step explanation:
The hormone leptin is produced and secreted primarily by adipose tissue in the human body. This hormone plays a crucial role in regulating energy balance by inhibiting appetite and thereby inducing a feeling of satiety or fullness after food consumption. High levels of body fat result in more leptin being released, which signals the brain to reduce hunger; conversely, when there is less body fat, leptin levels drop, and hunger increases.
Leptin resistance is an issue that has been linked to obesity, wherein despite the presence of high fat reserves, the body's sensitivity to leptin is diminished, leading to an inability to feel full and consequently, a higher risk of overeating. Adipose tissue not only produces leptin in response to food intake but also affects reproductive functions. Adequate body fat and therefore leptin production is essential for puberty and fertility in females.