Nature communications

Gene activity in human brain neurons that control energy balance

Updated

Abstract

Application of IHC/LCM-Seq identifies 14,000-16,000 transcripts in specific human hypothalamic neurons.

  • AgRP neurons are associated with appetite and energy storage, while POMC neurons are linked to feeding suppression and energy expenditure.
  • Distinct enrichments of co-transmitters, transcription factors, regulatory RNAs, and receptors differentiate AgRP and POMC neurons from each other and from kisspeptin neurons.
  • The AgRP neuron transcriptome contains receptors for proinflammatory cytokines, metabolic hormones, and growth hormone.
  • POMC neurons express receptors related to reproductive hormones, glucagon-like peptide, calcitonin, and endocannabinoids.
  • IHC/LCM-Seq may enhance understanding of molecular mechanisms that regulate energy homeostasis.

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