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Leptin-sensitive neurons in the hypothalamus connect to the body's daily feeding control system

Circadian Biology Weekly Brief ↗PubMed ↗DOI ↗

Updated

Abstract

A specific population of neurons in the dorsomedial hypothalamus is identified as crucial for preparing the body for scheduled feeding.

  • Neurons expressing leptin receptors in the dorsomedial hypothalamus up-regulate genes related to circadian rhythm before meals.
  • Calcium activity in these neurons increases in anticipation of food availability.
  • Manipulating these neurons through leptin application or chemogenetic methods disrupts both molecular and behavioral responses to food timing.
  • Activation of the dorsomedial hypothalamus neurons is linked to a secondary phase of activity that aligns with stimulation and relies on a functioning suprachiasmatic nucleus.
  • A subpopulation of these neurons connects directly to the suprachiasmatic nucleus, potentially influencing the timing of the circadian clock.

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