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The histamine H3 receptor and eating behavior
Maria Beatrice Passani1, Patrizio Blandina, Fernando Torrealba
1Dip. Farmacologia Preclinica e Clinica, V.le G. Pieraccini 6, 50139 Firenze, Italy. beatrice.passani@unifi.it
The Journal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics
|September 25, 2010
Summary
The histaminergic system, particularly histamine H(1) and H(3) receptors, plays a crucial role in regulating feeding behavior and obesity. Further research into histaminergic ligands may offer new therapeutic strategies for eating disorders.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Pharmacology
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Obesity pharmacotherapy has historically yielded unsatisfactory results, prompting interest in the histaminergic system.
- Eating behavior is a complex process influenced by neurotransmitters, hormones, circadian rhythms, and environmental factors.
- Histamine in the brain was once thought to signal satiety, but recent evidence suggests it's more involved in the appetitive phase of feeding.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of the histaminergic system in controlling feeding behavior.
- To evaluate the therapeutic potential of histaminergic ligands for treating eating disorders.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of preclinical and clinical studies on the histaminergic system and feeding behavior.
- Analysis of the function of histamine receptors (H1 and H3) in appetite regulation and energy expenditure.
- Evaluation of existing and potential therapeutic targets within the histaminergic system for obesity and eating disorders.
Main Results:
- The histaminergic system, especially histamine H(1) receptors, is critical for regulating diurnal feeding patterns and obesity.
- Histamine release is associated with the appetitive phase of feeding, indicating its role in arousal and motivated behavior rather than satiety.
- While no brain-penetrating H(1) receptor agonists with anti-obesity effects have been identified, histamine H(3) receptors show promise as therapeutic targets.
Conclusions:
- The histaminergic system is a significant regulator of feeding behavior, arousal, and energy balance.
- Histamine H(3) receptor ligands represent a potential therapeutic avenue for obesity and related eating disorders.
- Further investigation is needed to develop effective brain-penetrant histaminergic drugs for treating feeding disorders.
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