Cholecystokinin and thermoregulation--a minireview

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Endocrinology
• Physiology

Background:

• Cholecystokinin (CCK) peptides are known to influence various physiological processes.
• Their role in thermoregulation, specifically inducing hypothermia or hyperthermia, is complex and requires further elucidation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the thermoregulatory effects of cholecystokinin (CCK) peptides.
• To emphasize the dual responses of hypothermia and hyperthermia induced by CCK.
• To discuss potential mechanisms and connections with other autonomic functions.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on CCK's effects on body temperature in rodents.
• Analysis of studies involving peripheral and central administration of CCK.
• Examination of receptor specificity (CCKA and CCKB) in mediating thermoregulatory responses.

Main Results:

• Peripheral CCK administration in rodents exposed to cold induces a dose-dependent hypothermia, likely mediated by CCKA receptors.
• Central microinjection of CCK in rats can elicit a thermogenic response, potentially involving CCKB receptors, although hypothermia has also been reported.
• Neuronal CCK may play a specific role in hyperthermia development, and endogenous CCK-ergic mechanisms could contribute to fever mediation.

Conclusions:

• CCK peptides exert dual thermoregulatory effects, causing either hypothermia or hyperthermia depending on administration route and receptor involvement.
• Neuronal CCK is implicated in hyperthermia and fever, while peripheral CCK may induce hypothermia via CCKA receptors.
• Further research is needed to fully understand the interplay between CCK, thermoregulation, and other autonomic functions.