AMP-activated protein kinase activates neuropeptide Y neurons in the hypothalamic arcuate nucleus to increase food intake in rats

► AMPK activator, AICAR, activates NPY but not POMC neurons in the hypothalamic arcuate nucleus by promoting extracellular Ca2+ influx. ► ICV AICAR-induced food intake is blocked by NPY Y1 receptor antagonist. ► Activation of AMPK stimulates ARC NPY neurons through Ca2+ influx, thereby causing NPY-dependent food intake.