Relaxin-3 and its role in neuroendocrine function
Barbara M C McGowan1, Sarah A Stanley, Mohammad A Ghatei
1Department of Investigative Medicine, Division of Investigative Science, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK.
Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences
|May 7, 2009
Summary
Relaxin-3, a brain peptide, may coordinate appetite, thyroid, and reproductive functions. Further research is needed to confirm its physiological roles and the receptors involved in these hypothalamic actions.
Area of Science:
- Neuroendocrinology
- Metabolic Regulation
- Reproductive Physiology
Background:
- The hypothalamus regulates energy homeostasis and endocrine functions.
- Relaxin-3 is a neuropeptide expressed in the brainstem with projections to the hypothalamus.
- Relaxin-3 is thought to act via RXFP3 and potentially RXFP1 receptors in the hypothalamus.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review evidence for relaxin-3's role as a hypothalamic orexigenic peptide.
- To discuss potential roles in the hypothalamo-pituitary-thyroid (HPT) and hypothalamo-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axes.
- To compare central endocrine effects of relaxin-3 with relaxin.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on relaxin-3's effects on energy expenditure and HPT axis.
- Discussion of studies investigating relaxin-3's role in the HPG axis.
- Comparative analysis of central endocrine actions of relaxin-3 and relaxin.
Main Results:
- Evidence suggests relaxin-3 may act as a hypothalamic orexigenic (appetite-stimulating) peptide.
- Relaxin-3 influences the HPT axis and energy expenditure.
- Preliminary studies suggest a role for relaxin-3 in the HPG axis, impacting reproductive function.
Conclusions:
- Relaxin-3 may function as a hypothalamic signal integrating appetite, thyroid function, and reproductive status.
- Further investigation is required to establish the physiological significance of these roles.
- Identifying the specific receptors mediating relaxin-3's central actions is crucial.
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