Leptin as a potential therapeutic target for breast cancer prevention and treatment

Importance of the field: Obesity is considered to be an important risk factor for postmenopausal breast cancer. Elevated estrogen levels are thought to be a growth factor associated with this relationship. However, there is increasing evidence that factors produced directly in adipose tissue, adipokines, can also affect breast cancer development. Leptin is one of the adipokines that is measured in serum/plasma in increasing amounts as body weight/body fat increases. Areas covered in this review: We highlight important aspects of leptin in relationship to mammary/breast tumor development. This includes findings from human, in vitro and animal studies. Information on leptin-related compounds which may have therapeutic use is presented. Additionally strategies to alter serum leptin levels by dietary and pharmacological interventions are discussed. What the reader will gain: The reader will gain insights into the relationship of an adipose tissue protein and its potential role in breast cancer development as well as ways to intervene in leptin's actions. Take home message: Continued research will determine if interfering with the action of leptin has preventive or therapeutic applications in breast cancer.