Physiology
Leptin
A hormone produced by fat cells that signals satiety to the brain. Leptin levels indicate energy reserves, helping regulate appetite and metabolism.
Biological Context
Leptin discovery explained how bodies sense fat stores. High fat produces high leptin, which should reduce appetite—but obesity often involves leptin resistance.
Business Application
Organizational leptin: signals indicating resource reserves. Cash balances and talent pools send 'leptin signals' that should moderate resource consumption. Leptin resistance—ignoring reserve signals—leads to organizational problems.