Liver-expressed antimicrobial peptide 2 (LEAP2)

Liver-expressed antimicrobial peptide 2 (LEAP2) is a small, cationic, cysteine-rich peptide primarily expressed in the liver, and is cleaved from a 77-residue precursor to form an active 40-residue peptide[2]. Originally discovered for its weak direct antimicrobial effects via disruption of bacterial membranes, its physiological concentrations suggest a more significant role as an endocrine regulator. LEAP2 is now recognized as an endogenous antagonist and inverse agonist of the growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHSR), thereby counteracting ghrelin signaling and regulating energy intake, glucose metabolism, and overall metabolic homeostasis[3][4][6]. Its functions extend to host immune defense, although its antimicrobial potency is modest at physiological levels[1][3][5]. LEAP2’s secretion is responsive to metabolic status, nutritional cues, and inflammation, making it a potential target in obesity and metabolic disease research[4][6].

Other names

Liver-enriched antimicrobial peptide 2LEAP-2LEAP2

Antagonism/Inverse agonism at the growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHSR), suppressing ghrelin-induced receptor signaling; Disruption of microbial cell membranes at supraphysiological concentrations[1][3][6]