Hormonal
Leptin regulates glucose homeostasis through direct actions on POMC neurons, but does not regulate food intake or energy balance through direct actions on these same neurons.
Understanding that leptin's effect on blood sugar is distinct from its effect on hunger helps explain why leptin therapy fails for weight loss in most obese individuals (who are leptin resistant) but might still have metabolic benefits. It shifts focus from 'blocking hunger' to 'metabolic flexibility' and non-POMC pathways.
We review the importance of leptin in regulating glucose homeostasis, but not food intake, through direct actions on ARC POMC neurons.
Why this rating
Based on a comprehensive review of multiple high-quality genetic models (Cre/LoxP, CRISPR, viral vectors) and modern intersectional techniques.
Source
A critical update on the l<scp>eptin‐melanocortin</scp> system
Olivier Lavoie et al. · Journal of Neurochemistry · 2023
DOI 10.1111/jnc.15765
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- POMC neurons expressing the glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor (Glp1r) are a distinct subpopulation from those expressing the leptin receptor (Lepr), and Glp1r-expressing POMC neurons may regulate energy balance.Good
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