LEP and Obesity: Interestingly, in vitro, adiponectin has been found to inhibit the activity of TNF‐alpha in endothelial cells,34 and TNF‐alpha has been shown to increase leptin release from adipocytes through post‐translational modifications.35 Although a direct link has not yet been made, lower adiponectin concentrations in obesity may indirectly contribute to increased maternal circulating leptin levels.