Gender Differences in Leptin Receptors and Insulin Sensitivity
Author Information
Author(s): Borja Guerra, Teresa Fuentes, Safira Delgado-Guerra, Amelia Guadalupe-Grau, Hugo Olmedillas, Alfredo Santana, Jesus Gustavo Ponce-Gonzalez, Cecilia Dorado, José A. L. Calbet
Primary Institution: Department of Physical Education, University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
Hypothesis
The high level of circulating leptin observed in women may result in down-regulation of leptin receptors in skeletal muscle or increased SOCS3 protein levels.
Conclusion
There is a gender dimorphism in skeletal muscle leptin receptor expression, which can be partly explained by the influence of testosterone.
Supporting Evidence
- Serum leptin concentration was 3.4 times higher in women compared to men.
- OB-R170 protein was 41% greater in women than men.
- OB-R128 protein was 163% greater in women than men.
- SOCS3 protein expression was similar in men and women.
Takeaway
This study found that women have more leptin receptors in their muscles than men, which might help them use fat better during exercise.
Methodology
The study assessed protein expression of leptin receptors and SOCS3 in muscle biopsies from 34 men and 33 women using Western blot analysis.
Limitations
The study only included healthy young individuals, and results may differ in obese or metabolic disease patients.
Participant Demographics
Participants were 34 men (average age 27.1 years) and 33 women (average age 26.7 years), all healthy and non-smokers.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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