leptin

n. a protein, manufactured and secreted by fat cells, that may communicate to the brain the amount of body fat stored and may help to regulate food intake. Leptin receptors have been found in the hypothalamus, and, when they are stimulated, food intake is reduced.

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Psychology term of the day

May 8th 2024

pluralism

1. the idea that any entity has many aspects and that it may have a variety of causes and meanings.

2. in philosophy, the belief that ultimate reality is composed of more than one substance or fundamental kind of entity. Compare dualism; monism.

3. the existence in a society of people having different religions, ethnic origins, and cultural backgrounds. —pluralist adj.