Leptin is best described as

• A. Hunger hormone produced in the stomach
• B. Suppresses appetite produced in fat cells
• C. Regulates blood sugar
• D. Stimulates appetite

Answer: (B)

Leptin is a hormone produced by fat cells that communicates how much energy is stored to the brain. It travels to the hypothalamus and signals fullness, helping to reduce appetite and promote energy expenditure. This is about long‑term energy balance, not an immediate signal like appetite coming from the stomach. In contrast to options that place it in the stomach or as a regulator of blood sugar, leptin’s primary role is to tell the brain that fat stores are sufficient, which helps regulate hunger over time. In obesity, higher leptin levels can occur but the brain may become resistant to its effects, diminishing its appetite-suppressing action.