Postnatal leptin prevents neonates hypothermia and restores normal adipose tissue development in IUGR piglets

Abstract

The aim of this study is to assess the effect of postnatal leptin supplementation in IUGR piglets on birth thermoregulation, endocrine profile and adipose tissue structure at weaning. Leptin enhanced corporal body temperature 48 hours after birth and plasma thyroxin level at weaning in IUGR leptin group as compared to IUGR saline. IUGR animals presented an altered adipose tissue structure relative to controls with less brown adipose tissue (BAT). Leptin enhanced BAT content in IUGR animals and decreased plasma triglycerides levels at weaning. As conclusion postnatal leptin could prevent neonates hypothermia and protects against obesity at later life.