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Serotonergic neurons are targets for leptin in the monkey
P D Finn1, M J Cunningham, D G Rickard
1Department of Physiology, Graduate Program in Neurobiology and Behavior, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98195, USA.
The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism
|March 7, 2001
Summary
Leptin receptors are found in brainstem serotonin neurons, suggesting leptin influences feeding and reproduction. This study localized leptin receptor (Ob-R) mRNA in serotonergic cells of the macaque brain.
Area of Science:
- Neuroendocrinology
- Molecular Neuroscience
Background:
- Leptin, a hormone from fat cells, regulates appetite, metabolism, and reproduction.
- Leptin receptors (Ob-R) are present in specific brain areas, including the Raphe nuclei, which produce serotonin.
- Serotonergic pathways are involved in feeding and reproduction, making them potential targets for leptin.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate whether serotonergic neurons in the macaque brainstem express the leptin receptor (Ob-R) mRNA.
- To determine if leptin directly targets serotonergic pathways.
Main Methods:
- Utilized double label in situ hybridization to detect Ob-R mRNA and serotonin transporter mRNA (a marker for serotonergic neurons).
- Employed computerized image analysis for quantitative assessment of co-localization.
- Studied female pigtailed macaques (Macaca nemestrina).
Main Results:
- Many cells in the Raphe nuclei co-expressed serotonin transporter mRNA and Ob-R mRNA.
- The highest concentration of double-labeled cells was observed in the caudal dorsal Raphe and median Raphe nuclei.
- Fewer double-labeled cells were found in other Raphe nuclei regions.
Conclusions:
- These findings indicate that leptin may exert its effects on ingestive behavior, metabolism, and reproduction by acting on serotonergic neurons.
- The study provides evidence for a direct link between leptin signaling and the brain's serotonergic system in primates.