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Aldosterone-induced salt appetite requires HSD2 neurons
Silvia Gasparini1, Lila Peltekian1, Miriam C McDonough2
1Department of Neurology.
JCI Insight
|October 24, 2024
Summary
Scientists identified specific brain neurons that control salt cravings driven by aldosterone. Targeting these neurons could help manage high blood pressure and related health risks.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Endocrinology
- Physiology
Background:
- Excessive aldosterone production is linked to cardiovascular and neurological diseases.
- Aldosterone influences sodium balance and appetite, but the brain mechanisms are not fully understood.
- 11-β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase 2 (HSD2) is crucial for aldosterone signaling in neurons.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify HSD2 neurons in the human brain.
- To investigate the role of HSD2 neurons in aldosterone-induced salt intake using a mouse model.
- To determine if HSD2 neurons are essential for salt appetite.
Main Methods:
- Identification of HSD2 neurons in human brain tissue.
- Utilizing a mouse model with dietary sodium manipulation.
- Employing chemogenetics to stimulate HSD2 neurons.
- Genetic ablation of HSD2 neurons for functional assessment.
Main Results:
- Dietary sodium deprivation increased aldosterone, salt intake, and HSD2 neuron activity in mice.
- Chemogenetic stimulation of HSD2 neurons specifically enhanced salt intake.
- HSD2 neurons were found to be necessary for aldosterone-driven salt consumption.
Conclusions:
- HSD2 neurons in the brain are identified and play a critical role in regulating salt appetite.
- These findings provide insight into the neural circuits controlling appetite.
- HSD2 neurons represent a potential therapeutic target for managing sodium intake and related health conditions.
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