European Journal of Molecular & Clinical Medicine

Abstract

Adipose tissue acts as an endocrine gland, produce various adipokines which help in establishing communication between adipose tissue and other organs. Leptin is an important adipokine, mediating a wide range of functions like lipid and carbohydrate metabolism, insulin sensitivity, atherosclerosis, angiogenesis etc. Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a complication of pregnancy which is characterized by impaired carbohydrate tolerance with onset or first recognition during pregnancy. It develops as a result of decreased insulin sensitivity and results in altered metabolic effects like increased postprandial FFAs, increased hepatic glucose production high blood glucose levels.Leptin levels are reported to be altered, may be increased or decreased in GDM .  However, report available are conflicting and fact is yet to be established. Insulin resistance in GDM has been associated with elevated leptin levels. As leptin is closely associated with lipid metabolism, it may be attributed dyslipidemias in GDM. As leptin has a wide range of metabolic roles, it may have an impact on pregnancy outcomes, both maternal as well as fetal, it is an important topic to review