Role of dysregulated expression of leptin and leptin receptors in colorectal carcinogenesis

Tumour Biol. 2014 Feb;35(2):871-9. doi: 10.1007/s13277-013-1166-4. Epub 2013 Sep 7.

Abstract

Leptin is a multifunctional adipose-derived cytokine that plays a critical role in bodyweight homeostasis and energy balance. Plasma level of leptin is an indicator of the amount of energy stored in adipose tissues. Recently, leptin and leptin receptor dysregulation have been reported in a variety of malignant cells including colorectal cancers (CRCs). There are growing evidence that leptin may be the link between obesity and CRC carcinogenesis. Leptin influence the growth and proliferation of cancer cells via activation of various growth and survival signaling pathways including JAK/STAT, PI3-kinase/AKT, and/or MAP kinases. In this review, current understanding of leptin and its receptor's roles in the pathogenesis of colonogenic cancer has been described.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adipose Tissue / metabolism*
  • Adipose Tissue / pathology
  • Carcinogenesis / metabolism
  • Colorectal Neoplasms / genetics
  • Colorectal Neoplasms / metabolism*
  • Colorectal Neoplasms / pathology
  • Energy Metabolism
  • Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic
  • Homeostasis
  • Humans
  • Leptin / genetics
  • Leptin / metabolism*
  • Receptors, Leptin / genetics*
  • Receptors, Leptin / metabolism
  • Signal Transduction

Substances

  • Leptin
  • Receptors, Leptin