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Updated: May 15, 2026
06:57
Determining Basal Energy Expenditure and the Capacity of Thermogenic Adipocytes to Expend Energy in Obese Mice
Published on: November 11, 2021
Orexin modulates brown adipose tissue thermogenesis.
Christopher J Madden1, Domenico Tupone, Shaun F Morrison
1Department of Neurological Surgery Oregon Health & Science University Portland, OR 97239.
Biomolecular Concepts
|January 8, 2013
Summary
Orexins in the brain regulate brown adipose tissue (BAT) thermogenesis for body temperature and energy balance. Understanding this orexinergic modulation is key for metabolic and thermoregulation research.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Metabolism
- Physiology
Background:
- Brown adipose tissue (BAT) is crucial for thermoregulation and energy homeostasis.
- Non-shivering thermogenesis in BAT generates heat by consuming energy reserves.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of central orexins (hypocretins) in modulating BAT thermogenesis.
- To explore neural mechanisms in pathological conditions lacking orexinergic control of BAT.
Main Methods:
- Conceptual overview and synthesis of existing experimental data.
- Analysis of physiological conditions affecting BAT thermogenesis.
- Consideration of neurochemical regulation principles.
Main Results:
- Central orexins modulate BAT thermogenesis and energy expenditure.
- Absence of orexinergic signaling can lead to pathological conditions.
- Orexin's role provides insights into neurochemical regulation of metabolism.
Conclusions:
- Central orexins are key regulators of BAT thermogenesis and energy balance.
- Understanding orexinergic pathways is vital for metabolic and thermoregulatory disorders.
- This review offers principles for future research on neurochemical regulation.
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