New insights on food intake control by olfactory processes: The emerging role of the endocannabinoid system

•Olfactory circuits sense the energy balance of the organism.•Orexigenic signals enhance olfactory performance.•Anorectic molecules disrupt olfactory perception.•The endocannabinoid system links hunger with olfaction and food intake.

The internal state of the organism is an important modulator of perception and behavior. The link between hunger, olfaction and feeding behavior is one of the clearest examples of these connections. At the neurobiological level, olfactory circuits are the targets of several signals (i.e. hormones and nutrients) involved in energy balance. This indicates that olfactory areas are potential sensors of the internal state of the organism. Thus, the aim of this manuscript is to review the literature showing the interplay between metabolic signals in olfactory circuits and its impact on food intake.