Leptin and old person's nutrition.

The leptin, protein of 146 amino acids, produced gene ob (chromosome 7) acts via the hypothalamus on the control of energy balance. It is implied in the adequacy between the food intake and the energy expenditure, and maintains stable body mass. We studied leptine's diurnal rhythm in old person of more than 75 years in institution, according to its state of nutrition and the undercurrent events likely to modify it.