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Isolation of Targeted Hypothalamic Neurons for Studies of Hormonal, Metabolic, and Electrical Regulation
Published on: August 4, 2023
Characterization of leptin-responsive neurons in the caudal brainstem
Kate L J Ellacott1, Ilia G Halatchev, Roger D Cone
1Center for the Study of Weight Regulation and Associated Disorders and Vollum Institute, Oregon Health and Science University, 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Road, Portland, 97239-3098, USA.
Endocrinology
|April 8, 2006
Summary
The central melanocortin system regulates energy balance. New research shows brainstem POMC neurons respond to leptin and CCK, suggesting a novel role in appetite control.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Endocrinology
- Metabolism
Background:
- The central melanocortin system is crucial for energy homeostasis.
- Proopiomelanocortin (POMC) neurons in the arcuate nucleus (ARC) respond to leptin and ghrelin.
- The function of POMC neurons in the nucleus of the solitary tract (NTS) is less understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of NTS POMC neurons in energy homeostasis.
- To determine if NTS POMC neurons are regulated by leptin and cholecystokinin (CCK).
Main Methods:
- Utilized POMC-enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) transgenic mice.
- Administered peripheral leptin and measured phospho-signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 immunoreactivity (pSTAT3-IR).
- Examined co-expression of CART immunoreactivity in NTS POMC-EGFP neurons.
Main Results:
- Peripheral leptin activated over 50% of NTS POMC-EGFP neurons, indicated by pSTAT3-IR.
- NTS POMC-EGFP neurons constituted 30% of all pSTAT3-IR cells in the NTS.
- Unlike ARC POMC neurons, NTS POMC-EGFP neurons did not coexpress CART.
Conclusions:
- NTS POMC neurons are a novel cell group responsive to leptin.
- These neurons are also activated by the satiety factor CCK.
- NTS POMC neurons may contribute to leptin's effects on energy balance.
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