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Overfeeding, autonomic regulation and metabolic consequences
A J Scheurink1, B Balkan, J H Strubbe
1Department of Animal Physiology, University of Groningen, Haren, The Netherlands.
Cardiovascular Drugs and Therapy
|June 1, 1996
Summary
Overfeeding increases both sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous system activity. This leads to altered norepinephrine responses during exercise, linked to fat reserves in obesity.
Area of Science:
- Autonomic Nervous System Physiology
- Obesity Pathophysiology
- Energy Homeostasis Regulation
Background:
- The autonomic nervous system (ANS) regulates bodily functions in health and disease.
- Overfeeding and obesity are linked to altered sympathetic and parasympathetic functions.
- Autonomic disturbances may causally relate to obesity consequences.
Purpose of the Study:
- Investigate autonomic functioning in experimental hyperphagia models.
- Examine ANS role in peripheral energy substrate homeostasis.
- Determine relationship between overfeeding, obesity, and autonomic control.
Main Methods:
- Utilized experimentally and genetically hyperphagic rat models.
- Assessed parasympathetic activity via cephalic insulin release.
- Measured plasma norepinephrine (NE) levels at baseline and during exercise.
Main Results:
- Overfeeding increased parasympathetic outflow and vagal activity indices.
- Elevated baseline sympathetic tone observed (increased plasma NE).
- Diminished NE response to exercise in obese rats, normalized by food deprivation.
Conclusions:
- Overfeeding is associated with increased parasympathetic and sympathetic tone.
- Increased sympathetic tone in hyperphagia models correlates with blunted exercise NE response.
- Altered peripheral-central nervous system feedback mechanisms in obesity indicated by NE response.