Stage specific effect of leptin on the expressions of estrogen receptor and extracellular matrix in a model of chondrocyte differentiation

► Both leptin and estrogen regulate the metabolism of chondrocytes in the growth plate. ► Simultaneous expressions of Ob-Rb and ERα or ERβ in ATDC5 cells were observed. ► The crosstalk between leptin and estrogen receptor was differentiation stage specific. ► Leptin influenced the production of extracelluar matrix partly via ERα and ERα/ERβ.