In the context of appetite regulation, which hormone is produced by adipose tissue?

Leptin is a hormone produced by adipose tissue that plays a crucial role in appetite regulation and energy balance. It is released into the bloodstream in proportion to the amount of fat stored in the body. When fat stores increase, leptin levels rise, signaling the brain to reduce appetite and increase energy expenditure. This feedback mechanism helps to maintain body weight by preventing excessive weight gain.

In contrast, ghrelin is produced by the stomach and stimulates appetite but is not related to adipose tissue. Insulin, while also involved in metabolic regulation, is produced by the pancreas and primarily regulates glucose levels in the blood rather than directly influencing appetite. Corticosteroids, produced by the adrenal glands, are involved in stress response and various metabolic processes, but they do not have a primary role in appetite regulation like leptin does. Thus, leptin is correctly identified as the hormone produced by adipose tissue that regulates appetite.