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CART in feeding and obesity
Richard G Hunter1, Kelly Philpot, Aleksandra Vicentic
1Neuroscience Division, Yerkes National Research Center of Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA. rghunter@emory.edu
Trends in Endocrinology and Metabolism: TEM
|November 3, 2004
Summary
Cocaine- and amphetamine-regulated transcript (CART) peptides are key neurotransmitters regulating feeding behavior and body weight. Research suggests CART plays a role in obesity, making it a potential drug target.
Area of Science:
- Neuroendocrinology
- Neuropharmacology
- Obesity Research
Background:
- Cocaine- and amphetamine-regulated transcript (CART) peptides are neurotransmitters involved in mammalian feeding behavior and body-weight regulation.
- CART peptides and their mRNAs are present in brain regions and peripheral tissues critical for feeding control.
- Animal studies consistently identify CART as an inhibitor of feeding behavior.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of CART peptides in feeding behavior and body-weight regulation.
- To explore the link between CART gene mutations and human obesity.
- To evaluate CART peptides as potential therapeutic targets for obesity treatment.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing animal studies on CART peptides and feeding behavior.
- Analysis of hormonal regulation of CART expression (leptin and glucocorticoids).
- Examination of a recent human genetic study linking CART mutations to obesity.
Main Results:
- CART peptides are implicated as inhibitors of feeding in numerous animal studies.
- CART gene expression is modulated by leptin and glucocorticoids, hormones linked to body weight.
- A human genetic mutation in the CART gene has been associated with obesity.
Conclusions:
- CART peptides are significant regulators of feeding behavior and body weight.
- The regulation of CART expression by key hormones highlights its role in energy homeostasis.
- Genetic evidence in humans and animal data suggest CART is a promising target for anti-obesity drug development.