User:Lantrell0101/sandbox

A hormone that I am interested in learning more about is Leptin and some of the biochemical pathways it influences.

Adipose-derived hormones
Leptin is known to influence moods and cognition by inducing some structural and functional changes within the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex. Also, leptin has been shown to activate signal transduction pathways associated with dopamine and mTOR, which can increase synaptogenesis.

It was found that leptin has antidepressant-like effects similar to that of serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).

Leptin's role in neuroplasticity is currently still being elucidated, but it has been proven to be active in regions of the brain closely linked to depression.

Low levels of leptin in the blood plasma have been heavily associated with people suffering from moderate to severe forms of depression.