Circulating uridine dynamically and adaptively regulates food intake in humans

Area of Science:

• Metabolism and Endocrinology
• Nutritional Neuroscience
• Human Physiology

Background:

• Energy balance regulation is crucial for survival and involves complex physiological feedback mechanisms.
• Recent research in murine models suggests uridine plays a role in regulating energy homeostasis.
• Understanding uridine's function in humans is essential for addressing feeding behavior dysregulation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the role of endogenous uridine in human hunger and food intake.
• To determine the effects of uridine monophosphate (UMP) administration on circulating uridine levels, hunger, and caloric consumption in healthy adults.
• To explore uridine as a potential therapeutic target for feeding behavior disorders.

Main Methods:

• Two placebo-controlled studies were conducted with healthy participants.
• Participants received a single dose of uridine monophosphate (UMP) at 0.5 g or 1 g.
• Measurements included endogenous uridine levels, hunger ratings, and subsequent food intake.
• Registration: DRKS00014874.

Main Results:

• Endogenous circulating uridine levels positively correlated with hunger and food consumption.
• Circulating uridine decreased dynamically after caloric intake, suggesting a negative feedback role.
• Oral UMP administration transiently elevated circulating uridine levels.
• Elevated uridine within the physiological range enhanced hunger and caloric intake, proportional to individual energy needs.

Conclusions:

• Uridine is implicated as a regulator of energy intake in humans.
• UMP administration can modulate hunger and food consumption in a dose- and physiology-dependent manner.
• Uridine represents a promising target for interventions aimed at correcting human feeding behavior dysfunctions.