Parallel gut-to-brain pathways orchestrate feeding behaviors

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Physiology
• Gastroenterology

Background:

• The caudal nucleus of the solitary tract (cNTS) integrates interoceptive signals but how it drives feeding behaviors is unclear.
• Understanding cNTS neuron function is crucial for deciphering feeding regulation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the distinct roles of cNTS cell types in regulating feeding behaviors.
• To elucidate the sensory pathways and temporal dynamics underlying cNTS-mediated feeding control.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of 18 cNTS-Cre mouse lines.
• Cataloging the dynamics of nine cNTS cell types during feeding.
• Investigating vagal afferent and portal vein-spinal ascending pathways.

Main Results:

• Th+ cNTS neurons use vagal inputs to encode esophageal distension and gulp size, regulating ingestion speed.
• Gcg+ cNTS neurons sense intestinal nutrients and calories via a portal vein-spinal pathway, influencing satiation and preference.
• Distinct cNTS subtypes exhibit unique temporal dynamics and sensory modalities.

Conclusions:

• cNTS subtypes are functionally specialized for different aspects of feeding regulation.
• Specific sensory pathways and temporal dynamics differentiate cNTS neuron roles in controlling ingestion and satiation.
• Findings reveal a complex, multi-pathway system for coordinated feeding regulation within the cNTS.