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Updated: Aug 5, 2026
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Published on: April 28, 2016
Peptide Hormones in Appetite Regulation: A Complex Network
Sara Abdollahi1, Hussan Adam1, Othman Al Musaimi1,2,3,4
1School of Pharmacy, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 7RU, UK.
Pharmaceuticals (Basel, Switzerland)
|July 28, 2026
Summary
Appetite regulation involves complex gut-brain signaling. Disruptions contribute to obesity, but new therapies like GLP-1 agonists show promise, though challenges remain.
Area of Science:
- Neuroendocrinology
- Metabolic disorders
- Obesity research
Background:
- Appetite regulation is a complex neuroendocrine process involving peripheral signals and central circuits.
- Disruptions in these pathways are linked to obesity and feeding disorders.
Purpose of the Study:
- To synthesize evidence on appetite-regulating hormones and neural pathways in control and obesity.
- To explore emerging therapeutic strategies for appetite dysregulation.
Main Methods:
- Conducted a scoping review of literature on appetite regulation mechanisms.
- Examined key peptide hormones (ghrelin, GLP-1, PYY, leptin, insulin) and their gut-brain axis interactions.
- Analyzed effects on central appetite-regulating circuits.
Main Results:
- The arcuate nucleus integrates peripheral hormonal signals with neural pathways for feeding behavior control.
- Appetite is regulated by orexigenic (NPY/AgRP) and anorexigenic (POMC/CART) neurons.
- Hormone resistance, impaired satiety, and altered feedback contribute to obesity.
- GLP-1 receptor agonists (liraglutide, semaglutide) and tirzepatide show therapeutic potential but face challenges.
Conclusions:
- Appetite regulation relies on interconnected peripheral and central signaling.
- Multi-target and precision therapies are supported for obesity treatment.
- Future research should address treatment resistance, long-term efficacy, and individual variability.
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