Leptin, Pegylated

Mouse Leptin is as key regulator of energy balance and body weight control. Following its release into the bloodstream, it binds to the leptin receptor (LEPR), a membrane-bound receptor widely expressed in both central and peripheral tissues. This interaction initiates several major signaling pathways, which collectively regulate energy homeostasis, appetite, metabolism, and other physiological functions. Mutations or defects in the lep gene can lead to severe obesity and the development of type II diabetes. Pegylated recombinant mouse leptin is a polypeptide chain containing 146 amino acid residues with an additional Ala at N-terminus and one molecule of PEG 20 kDa at its N-terminus. The expected molecular mass is ~ 35.6 kDa as determined by MS. However, due to enlarged hydrodynamic volume, the recombinant leptin runs on the SDS-Page as a 48 kDa protein. After subcutaneous injection, the half-life in circulation of the recombinant mouse leptin was tested to be over 20 hours.