Physiology Seminar: Dr. Maia Kokoeva: "Leptin, obesity and neuroinflammation"

Energy balance crucially depends on specialized brain circuits that process signals from peripheral organs and the environment to control food intake and energy expenditure. Central to the body’s ability to limit fat mass accumulation is the adipocyte-derived hormone leptin, which acts on the major energy balance control circuits located in the hypothalamus. Although it has long been known that several subtypes of neurons located primarily in the arcuate nucleus of the hypothalamus respond to leptin, precisely how and where circulating leptin is sensed is still unresolved. Our research aims to clarify mechanisms of leptin sensing. The long-term goal of my lab is to clarify why some humans can maintain their body weights strikingly constant over most of their adult lives while others are confronted with gradual or abrupt increases in fat mass as they age. Our studies may thus provide new insight into the etiology of obesity and ultimately help to develop new strategies for the prevention and treatment of obesity and obesity-related diseases.

This seminar will take place in-person and online ( details in attached poster below) . All are welcome