ABSTRACT
Leptin was discovered in 1994 as the product o f the OB gene and was originally thought to be produced by only adipocytes governing energy homeostasis. Nevertheless, it has since been described as a pleiotrophic hormone secreted by many tissues affecting different p ro cesses. Numerous data have been published about the potential role o f the leptin system in the control o f the reproductive function in mammals, which acts directly or indirectly on the embryo or the endometrium. Moreover, several disorders in the leptin system have been related to some reproductive pathologies such as endometriosis, preeclampsia and polycystic ovary syndrome. Nowadays there is controversy in several aspects o f the leptin action in reproduction that requires a more in-depth research o f this system. In this chapter we will review the main findings in the leptin system related to its expression in the endometrium and its potential function during the implantation process. We will also mention the presence and possible implication o f this system in endometriosis.
