Regulation of Feeding-Related Behaviors by Arcuate Neuropeptide Y Neurons

Research over recent decades has established neuropeptide Y (NPY) neurons in the arcuate nucleus (Arc) of the hypothalamus as a group of powerful orexigenic acting neurons in the brain. However, genetic mouse models in combination with novel neuron-controlling chemogenetic and optogenetic technologies have also uncovered additional functions for this Arc NPY population that go beyond the simple food intake stimulatory action and link these NPY neurons to the control of energy expenditure, thermogenesis, physical activity, food-seeking behavior, and anxiety. This control is achieved by complex neuronal networks connecting these Arc NPY neurons with other vital neuronal centers in the brain, including the paraventricular nucleus, ventral tegmental area, amygdala, and brainstem. In addition, single-cell sequencing approaches have revealed that a greater heterogeneity of NPY neurons actually exists, giving rise to various subsets of NPY neuronal populations that are distinguished by the profile of other neurotransmitters that they coexpress. In this review we will focus on aspects of food intake-associated behaviors and shed more light on the integrative role of NPY neurons in potential interaction pathways of individual survival circuits.