The present invention is directed to methods for modulating the Th/Th2 cell balance toward anti-inflammatory cytokine producing cells in a subject comprising decreasing the amount, the expression, or the activity of leptin in a subject sufficient to modulate the Th1/Th2 cell balance toward anti-inflammatory cytokine producing cells. The invention is also directed to methods of treatment of an immune-related disorder in a subject comprising decreasing the amount, the expression, or the activity of leptin in the subject sufficient to treat the immune-related disorder.