Network dynamics of hypothalamic feeding neurons
Abstract
Paraventricular nucleus (PVN) neurons expressing the melanocortin 4 receptor (MC4R) integrate hormonal and neuronal information concerning energy availability and engage neural circuitry controlling feeding, metabolism, and neuroendocrine function in response to changes in body weight and stored energy. Thereby, the dynamic activity of PVN MC4R neurons may serve as a neural representation of body weight “set point.” Here, we demonstrate that PVN MC4R neuronal activity is bidirectionally regulated by changes in energy state, as neuronal activity is gradually suppressed during fasting and increased in response to refeeding. Together, these findings provide a framework for understanding how hunger and satiety are controlled within critical neurons involved in energy homeostasis.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Pub Defense Publication
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 2021
- Source ID
- 10.1073/pnas.2011140118
Entities
People
- Can Chen
- Indika Rajapakse
- Patrick Sweeney
- Roger D. Cone
Organizations
- Air Force Office of Scientific Research
- Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases
- University of Michigan