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Deep brain stimulation alters light phase food intake microstructure in rats
P Prinz1, P Kobelt1, S Scharner1
1Charite Center for Internal Medicine and Dermatology, Department for Psychosomatic Medicine; Charite - Universitaetsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universitaet Berlin, Humboldt - Universitaet zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany.
Deep brain stimulation (DBS) of the nucleus accumbens (NAcc) in rats increased body weight gain by altering light-phase feeding patterns. This suggests DBS may reduce satiation, offering a novel approach for eating disorder treatments.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Behavioral Science
- Metabolic Research
Background:
- Eating disorders present significant treatment challenges with limited therapeutic options.
- Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is an emerging approach targeting brain reward systems.
- The nucleus accumbens (NAcc) plays a crucial role in the brain's food reward pathway.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of nucleus accumbens shell DBS on food intake microstructure and body weight in rats.
- To explore the underlying mechanisms by which DBS influences feeding behavior.
- To assess the potential of NAcc DBS as a therapeutic strategy for eating disorders.
Main Methods:
- Unilateral DBS was applied to the NAcc shell in normal weight female Sprague-Dawley rats for seven days.
- Body weight and detailed food intake patterns (microstructure) were continuously monitored.
- Behavioral parameters including eating, drinking, grooming, and locomotion were manually observed.
Main Results:
- DBS of the NAcc shell tended to increase body weight gain compared to sham controls (P=0.05).
- While overall daily food intake remained unchanged, light phase food intake was significantly stimulated by DBS (P<0.05).
- DBS increased light phase feeding bout frequency, duration, and overall time spent eating, suggesting reduced satiation.
Conclusions:
- DBS of the NAcc shell can modulate body weight and alter feeding microstructure, particularly during the light phase.
- The observed increase in light phase feeding suggests DBS may reduce feelings of satiation.
- These findings highlight the potential of NAcc DBS as a novel intervention for managing eating disorders and obesity.
