Annie was recently told that she produces physiologically low level of leptin. what does this mean in terms of her likelihood of becoming obese compared to someone who produces physiologically normal levels of leptin?
a) she has a greater likelihood of becoming obese
b) she has a much less likelihood of becoming obese
c) she has an equal likelihood of becoming obese

A) she has a greater likelihood of becoming obese

Explanation:

The arcuate nucleus and the paraventricular nucleus are the two regions of the hypothalamus that regulate the food intake by a person. The neurons of these regions release neuropeptide Y and melanocortin. Leptin is secreted by adipocytes in the body. When more triglycerides are stored in the body, more leptin is secreted into the bloodstream.

Leptin reduces the total fat content of the body as it inhibits the pathway that makes the person eat food. Leptin stimulates the release of neurotransmitter melanocortin that inhibits food intake. Under the lower leptin concentration in the blood, the neurotransmitter neuropeptide Y stimulates food intake. Therefore, lower leptin production is more likely to make Annie obese.