Galanin-like peptide modulates energy balance by affecting inflammatory mediators?

Galanin-like peptide (GALP) is a neuropeptide that is thought to play a role in the regulation of energy balance. However, the effects of GALP on food intake and body weight appear to be complex. In rats, central administration of GALP initially stimulates food intake, an effect that is followed by a reduction in food intake and body weight, whereas in mice, GALP has an anorectic action only. In rats and mice, GALP also causes a prostaglandin-dependent increase in core body temperature. These anorectic effects of GALP are similar to those observed after central administration of the pro-inflammatory cytokine interleukin-1 (IL-1). This review will discuss the evidence for the dichotomous actions of GALP on energy balance, and the potential mechanisms involved. I also describe a role for IL-1 in mediating the anorectic and febrile actions of GALP, and consider the possibility that GALP may act like an inflammatory mediator.