Neuroscience: Neurons that use a stress hormone increase eating

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Neuroendocrinology
• Behavioral Neuroscience

Background:

• Corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) is primarily recognized for its role in the brain's stress response.
• The lateral hypothalamus is a key brain region involved in regulating basic drives, including hunger and satiety.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate a potential, previously unrecognized role of CRH neurons in sensory processing related to feeding behavior.
• To explore the function of CRH-expressing neurons in the lateral hypothalamus concerning olfactory cues and food consumption.

Main Methods:

• Utilized genetically modified mice to identify and study specific CRH-expressing neurons in the lateral hypothalamus.
• Employed behavioral assays to assess the response of mice to olfactory food cues and their subsequent feeding behavior.

Main Results:

• Identified a distinct subpopulation of CRH neurons in the lateral hypothalamus.
• Demonstrated that these CRH neurons are activated by olfactory cues associated with food.
• Showed that the activation of these neurons promotes food consumption in mice.

Conclusions:

• CRH neurons in the lateral hypothalamus are involved in sensing olfactory food cues.
• This neural circuit plays a significant role in promoting food intake, extending beyond the known stress functions of CRH.