Nature metabolism

GLP-1’s role in brain signaling changes with body state to maintain energy balance

Updated

Abstract

Chemogenetic activation of the PVN→DVC circuit in mice suppresses feeding.

  • GLP-1 receptor neurons in the paraventricular hypothalamic nucleus project to the dorsal vagal complex in the brain stem.
  • Synapses in the PVN→DVC circuit release glutamate and their activity is enhanced by GLP-1.
  • Under hunger conditions, the strength of synaptic connections is weaker but responds more strongly to GLP-1 receptor activation.
  • In obesity, the synaptic adjustments in this pathway may become impaired.
  • Optogenetic stimulation of the PVN→DVC projections reduces food intake in a manner dependent on the energy state.
  • Blocking synaptic release or removing GLP-1 receptors in presynaptic neurons negatively affects metabolic health.

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Full Text

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