Hunger is regulated by the hypothalamus gland in the brain and controlled by internal body mechanisms. The hypothalamus is a command center in the brain and governs circadian cycles, emotions and behavior. In order for the neurotransmitter in the brain to function properly, this gland must be able to process and regulate the signals generated by the nerves responding to various mediators of food intake. At any time, the hypothalamus communicates with sixty trillion body cells. This center not only signals us to eat; but when we eat, hunger decreases, and the satiety center in the hypothalamus signals us to stop.
A comparative research study on cell metabolism compared normal rats and rats prone to obesity, and showed brain cell differences in the region of the hypothalamus that controls hunger and appetite. The genetic differences in over-eater rats made them less responsive to the appetite controlling hormone leptin, causing them to eat more.
Leptin
The protein hormone leptin is a neurotransmitter important to the homeostatic regulation of body weight. Leptin was identified as a gene in obese mice, in the genetic obesity study in 1994, New York University. Leptin influences hypothalamus and pituitary gland and promotes secretion of growth hormone and thyroid stimulating hormone. Leptin is produced by adipose tissue and synthesized in the placenta and gastrointestinal tract.
Leptin influences the regulation of appetite, energy and fat reserve. The lack of secretion of leptin rarely causes obesity itself, though some people are less sensitive to its action. Leptin increases metabolism and decreases appetite, by binding to the satiety center in the hypothalamus, signaling that the stomach is full.
Leptin signals your nutritional status to the central nervous system (CNS) and the peripheral organs. It influences the reproductive system and the release of insulin. Currently, researchers suspect that overweight individuals may have defective leptin utilization, causing satiety to be inhibited. Administration of Leptin from an outside source may affect weight loss.
Role of Thyroid Stimulating Hormone - And Leptin, A Neurotransmitter - In Obesity
Zari Alipour, Ph.D.
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