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(Reference retrieved automatically from Web of Science through information on FAPESP grant and its corresponding number as mentioned in the publication by the authors.)

Reviewing the Effects of l-Leucine Supplementation in the Regulation of Food Intake, Energy Balance, and Glucose Homeostasis

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Author(s):
Pedroso, Joao A. B. [1] ; Zampieri, Thais T. [1] ; Donato, Jr., Jose [1]
Total Authors: 3
Affiliation:
[1] Univ Sao Paulo, Dept Physiol & Biophys, Inst Biomed Sci, BR-05508000 Sao Paulo - Brazil
Total Affiliations: 1
Document type: Review article
Source: NUTRIENTS; v. 7, n. 5, p. 3914-3937, MAY 2015.
Web of Science Citations: 32
Abstract

Leucine is a well-known activator of the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR). Because mTOR signaling regulates several aspects of metabolism, the potential of leucine as a dietary supplement for treating obesity and diabetes mellitus has been investigated. The objective of the present review was to summarize and discuss the available evidence regarding the mechanisms and the effects of leucine supplementation on the regulation of food intake, energy balance, and glucose homeostasis. Based on the available evidence, we conclude that although central leucine injection decreases food intake, this effect is not well reproduced when leucine is provided as a dietary supplement. Consequently, no robust evidence indicates that oral leucine supplementation significantly affects food intake, although several studies have shown that leucine supplementation may help to decrease body adiposity in specific conditions. However, more studies are necessary to assess the effects of leucine supplementation in already-obese subjects. Finally, although several studies have found that leucine supplementation improves glucose homeostasis, the underlying mechanisms involved in these potential beneficial effects remain unknown and may be partially dependent on weight loss. (AU)

FAPESP's process: 13/25032-2 - The role of SOCS3 in the control of hyperphagia, body weight regain and gluconeogenesis after a period of food restriction
Grantee:João Alfredo Bolivar Pedroso
Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate
FAPESP's process: 12/15517-6 - Involvment of molecular factors in metabolic changes during pregnancy: role of SOCS3
Grantee:Thais Tessari Zampieri
Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate
FAPESP's process: 10/18086-0 - Molecular basis of leptin resistance
Grantee:Jose Donato Junior
Support Opportunities: Research Grants - Young Investigators Grants