Abstract: A method for restoring reproductive function in a reproductively impaired male or female host is disclosed, the method comprising administering a leptin compound to the host for a time and in an amount sufficient to restore or enhance reproductive function. A method of accelerating the onset of puberty in a male or female host is also disclosed, the method comprising administering a leptin compound to the host for a time and in an amount sufficient to cause the onset of puberty.

Abstract: A method of detecting a target DNA in a sample is provided which includes simultaneously amplifying the target DNA and one or more internal standard DNAs, labeling the target DNA with a first color-producing or color-absorbing label, and labeling each of the one or more internal standard DNAs with a different second color-producing or color-absorbing label, the first and second color-producing and color-absorbing labels being selected so that upon illumination of the sample a first color signal is produced whenever the target DNA is present and a second color signal is produced whenever the target DNA is absent.