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NPY receptors as potential targets for anti-obesity drug development

Ernie Yulyaningsih1, Lei Zhang, Herbert Herzog

  • 1Neuroscience Research Program, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, St Vincent's Hospital, Darlinghurst, Sydney, NSW, Australia.

British Journal of Pharmacology
|May 7, 2011
PubMed

Insights

The neuropeptide Y system regulates feeding and energy balance, offering therapeutic potential for obesity and anorexia. Recent development of selective Y receptor drugs shows promise for treating these energy homeostasis disorders.

Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Endocrinology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • The neuropeptide Y (NPY) system is a key regulator of feeding behavior and energy homeostasis.
  • Dysregulation of the NPY system is implicated in obesity and anorexia nervosa.
  • Historically, in vivo studies were limited by a lack of suitable pharmacological tools.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the therapeutic potential of targeting the neuropeptide Y system for metabolic disorders.
  • To discuss recent advancements in the development of selective Y receptor agonists and antagonists.
  • To evaluate the in vivo efficacy of novel NPY system modulators.

Main Methods:

  • Review of recent literature on neuropeptide Y receptor pharmacology.
  • Analysis of studies utilizing selective peptidic and non-peptidic Y receptor agonists and antagonists.
  • Examination of data from preclinical models investigating NPY system modulators in vivo.

Main Results:

  • Development of selective Y receptor agonists and antagonists has advanced significantly.
  • These novel pharmacological tools enable in vivo investigation of NPY system functions.
  • Emerging evidence suggests therapeutic potential for obesity and anorexia.

Conclusions:

  • The neuropeptide Y system represents a promising therapeutic target for eating disorders and metabolic conditions.
  • Selective Y receptor modulators are crucial for further research and clinical translation.
  • Targeting the NPY system holds potential for managing obesity and anorexia nervosa.

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