Article ID | Journal | Published Year | Pages | File Type |
---|---|---|---|---|
2007429 | Peptides | 2008 | 8 Pages |
Abstract
Hypothalamic POMC neurons regulate energy balance via interactions with brain melanocortin receptors (MC-Rs). POMC neurons express the MC3-R which can function as an inhibitory autoreceptor in vitro. We now demonstrate that central activation of MC3-R with ICV infusion of the specific MC3-R agonist, [d-Trp8]-γ-MSH, transiently suppresses hypothalamic Pomc expression and stimulates food intake in rats. Conversely, we also show that ICV infusion of a low dose of a selective MC3-R antagonist causes a transient decrease in feeding and weight gain. These data support a functional inhibitory role for the MC3-R on POMC neurons that leads to changes in food intake.
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Authors
Michelle Lee, Andrea Kim, Irene M. Conwell, Victor Hruby, Alexander Mayorov, Minying Cai, Sharon L. Wardlaw,