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Updated: Jan 8, 2026
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Detection of G Protein-coupled Receptor Expression in Mouse Vagal Afferent Neurons using Multiplex In Situ Hybridization
Published on: September 20, 2021
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Vagal sensory neurons encode internal protein status to guide eating
M Yang1, A de Araujo1, J Shakir1
1Monell Chemical Senses Center, Philadelphia, PA, USA; Department of Neuroscience, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
Molecular Metabolism
|December 18, 2025
Summary
Researchers discovered vagal sensory neurons that detect dietary protein, guiding adaptive protein intake. These neurons are crucial for regulating appetite and maintaining amino acid balance, distinct from calorie sensors.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Physiology
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- Animals regulate nutrient intake based on physiological needs.
- Mechanisms for sensing dietary protein and guiding feeding behavior are not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- Identify sensory neurons detecting dietary protein.
- Investigate their role in adaptive protein intake regulation.
Main Methods:
- Activity-dependent genetic labeling.
- In vivo calcium imaging.
- Selective ablation of identified neurons.
Main Results:
- Identified vagal sensory neurons selectively respond to intragastric protein.
- These neurons are activated by protein, show heightened responses during protein restriction, and are distinct from calorie sensors.
- Neuron ablation disrupts protein preference, motivation for protein rewards, and satiety responses.
Conclusions:
- A novel vagal circuit for protein detection and appetite regulation has been identified.
- This circuit integrates protein status with nutrient cues for homeostasis.
- Caloric and amino acid needs appear hierarchically organized and monitored by separate systems.
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