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Stress-induced eating is mediated through endogenous opiates
Science (New York, N.Y.)
|September 12, 1980
Summary
Endogenous opiates play a role in stress-induced eating in rats. Blocking these pathways with naloxone reduced stress eating and mimicked opiate withdrawal symptoms, suggesting therapeutic potential.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Behavioral Pharmacology
Background:
- Stress can trigger eating behaviors.
- Endogenous opiates are involved in pain and reward pathways.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of endogenous opiates in stress-induced eating.
- To examine the effects of naloxone on stress-related feeding behaviors in rats.
Main Methods:
- Rats were subjected to tail-pinch stress to induce eating.
- The opiate antagonist naloxone was administered.
- Behavioral responses were observed, including feeding and withdrawal-like symptoms.
Main Results:
- Naloxone significantly inhibited stress-induced eating.
- Repeated stress followed by naloxone administration induced behaviors similar to opiate withdrawal.
- These findings suggest endogenous opiates modulate stress-related feeding.
Conclusions:
- Endogenous opiates are implicated in the control of stress-induced eating.
- Pharmacological targeting of opiate pathways may offer therapeutic strategies for stress-related eating disorders.