Abstract: Leptin is a multifunctional hormone that regulates energy balance, appetite, reproduction, hematogenesis et al. Its action is mediated by leptin receptor. Leptin resistance is related with the tumorigenesis and tumor development. Leptin resistance not only plays an important role in the proliferation and apoptosis of cancer cells, but also regulates the number and function of variable kinds of immunocytes in tumor microenvironment. The immunomodulation of leptin resistance is vital for the development of cancer. Up to now, the immunomodulation of leptin resistance has been found to act in many kinds of tumors. To elucidate its mechanism might prove effective in cancer diagnosis and prevention.

Key words: leptin, leptin resistance, immunomodulation, neoplasms, hypoxia