GLP-1 neurons in the brainstem send signals to reward areas to regulate eating

Central GLP-1 receptor activation is associated with decreased food intake and body weight.

• GLP-1-producing neurons in the hindbrain project to the ventral tegmental area (VTA) and nucleus accumbens (NAc).
• Activation of GLP-1 receptors in the VTA, NAc core, and NAc shell is linked to reduced consumption of highly-palatable foods.
• Blocking GLP-1 receptor signaling in the VTA and NAc core leads to a significant increase in food intake.
• These findings suggest that the mesolimbic reward system is involved in GLP-1-mediated control of food intake and body weight.

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