Methods for increasing leptin levels using nicotinic acid compounds

Abstract

The invention relates to the use of nicotinic acid and nicotinic acid esters, such as nicotinic acid alkyl esters, to increase the amount of leptin in a subject. As a result, one can treat conditions, such as conditions characterized by wounds, by administering sufficient amounts of nicotinic acid or nicotinic acid ester to increase leptin levels to alleviating amounts. Various conditions and modes of treatment are disclosed.

1 - 12 . (Cancelled)  
     
     
         13 . A method for increasing leptin levels in a subject in need of improved immune function, skin epitheliation, hair follicle cycling, or inhibition of tumor formation, comprising administering to said subject an amount of nicotinic alkyl ester sufficient to increase leptin levels in said subject and improve immune function, improve skin epitheliation, improve hair follicle cycling, or inhibit tumor formation, wherein the alkyl chain of said nicotinic acid alkyl ester contains from 8 to 22 carbon atoms.  
     
     
         14 . The method of  claim 13 , wherein said subject is in need of improved immune function.  
     
     
         15 . the method of  claim 13 , wherein said subject is in need of improved skin epitheliation.  
     
     
         16 . The method of  claim 13 , wherein said subject is in need of improved hair follicle cycling.  
     
     
         17 . The method of  claim 13 , wherein said subject is in need of inhibition of tumor formation.  
     
     
         18 . The method of  claim 13 , wherein said alkyl chain contains 12 or 14 carbon atoms.  
     
     
         19 . The method of  claim 13 , wherein said nicotinic acid alkyl ester is administered orally.  
     
     
         20 . The method of  claim 13 , wherein said nicotinic acid alkyl ester is administered topically.  
     
     
         21 . The method of  claim 13 , comprising administering more than one nicotinic acid alkyl ester.