Modulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal-adipose axis with leptin receptor ligands

摘要

This invention relates generally to a method for modulating the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal Adipose Axis (HPAAA) in a mammal in need of such treatment by administration of a therapeutically effective amount of a leptin receptor ligand. More specifically, this invention relates to the use of leptin receptor agonists to treat disorders of the HPAAA, including the hyperglucocorticoidemia associated with Cushing's Syndrome, fasting, or otherwise-induced stress in obese or lean mammals in need of such treatment. This invention also relates to the use of leptin receptor antagonists, or specific anti-leptin antibodies, to treat the hypoglucocorticoidemia associated with autoimmune or inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis.