How Certain Neurons Control Appetite and Weight
Author Information
Author(s): Xu Yong, Jones Juli E., Kohno Daisuke, Williams Kevin W., Lee Charlotte E., Choi Michelle J., Anderson Jason G., Heisler Lora K., Zigman Jeffrey M., Lowell Bradford B., Elmquist Joel K.
Primary Institution: The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center
Hypothesis
5-HT2CRs in POMC neurons mediate the anorexigenic effects of 5-HT agents.
Conclusion
5-HT2CRs expressed by POMC neurons are sufficient to mediate the effects of serotonin on food intake and energy balance.
Supporting Evidence
- 2C null mice developed hyperphagia, hyperactivity, and obesity.
- Anorexigenic effects of 5-HT drugs were restored in 2C/POMC mice.
- 5-HT2CRs in POMC neurons are sufficient to normalize hyperphagia.
Takeaway
Some brain cells help control how much we eat and how much weight we gain. When these cells work right, they help keep us from getting too heavy.
Methodology
Mice with global 5-HT2CR deficiency and mice with 5-HT2CRs re-expressed in POMC neurons were generated and tested for food intake and body weight.
Limitations
The study did not quantitatively analyze the epileptic phenotype in the mice.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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