Food intake regulation by central complement system
Kousaku Ohinata1, Masaaki Yoshikawa
1Division of Food Science and Biotechnology, Graduate School of Agriculture, Kyoto University, Gokasho Uji, Kyoto 611-0011, Japan.
Abstract:
Complement C3a and C5a are released from C3 and C5, respectively, on activation of the complement system and play an important role in immune response. C3a, C5a and their receptors have been revealed to be present in the central nervous system (CNS) as well as the peripheral immune system. We found that centrally administered C3a suppresses food intake, while C5a stimulates food intake, and their food intake regulation may be associated with the prostaglandin system. We propose that complement C3a and C5a are regulators not only of the immune system but also of the CNS.
Related Concept Videos
Complement System
Regulation of Food Intake
Antimicrobial Proteins
Interferons
Interferons (IFNs) are proteins produced by lymphocytes, macrophages, and fibroblasts infected with viruses. While IFNs cannot prevent viruses from entering and...
Neural Regulation
Global Regulatory Systems
Inflammatory Response
Inflammation can be triggered by various stimuli, such as impact, abrasion, chemical irritation, infections, and extreme hot or cold temperatures. These can damage cells and connective tissue fibers,...


