Study Provides Surprising New Clue to the Roots of Hunger

A recent study published in the journal Nature, discovered a group of nerve cells in the brain’s hypothalamus that are activated by caloric deficiency, giving scientists a better understanding of how the brain controls hunger. Among the findings, was the discovery of the group of nerve cells called Agouti-peptide (AgRP) expressing nerve cells, which when stimulated (naturally or artificially), will cause mice to eat voraciously after conducting a search for food. Additionally, these hunger-inducing neurons are located in the paraventricular nucleus — a brain region long thought to be responsible for feelings of satiety. The findings are significant for increasing the understanding of what drives appetite, adding to the potential for treating abnormal hunger associated with obesity and eating disorders. To read more about this study, click here.