Paraventricular nucleus anandamide signaling alters eating and substrate oxidation

In the central nervous system, the endocannabinoid anandamide [N-arachidonoylethanolamine (AEA)] is believed to increase food intake through on-demand activation of hypothalamic circuits. The present study examined the effects of hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus (PVN) injections of AEA (25-400 pmol) on food intake and energy substrate oxidation [respiratory quotient (RQ)]. PVN administration of AEA increased eating behavior and RQ, indicating enhanced carbohydrate oxidation. Further, PVN administration of the cannabinoid type 1 receptor inverse agonist AM251 (5-10 μg) attenuated both the eating and the RQ responses elicited by AEA (100 pmol). AM251 administered alone did not alter food intake or RQ. Overall, these findings are consistent with a role for PVN cannabinoid type 1 receptors in the regulation of eating and energy homeostasis.