Research
Hormonal
Orexin (OX) neurons in the LHA promote feeding, arousal, and physical activity, and their disruption is linked to sleep disorders like narcolepsy.
Orexin neurons are critical for both wakefulness and energy balance. Disruptions in this system can lead to sleep disorders and metabolic issues. Current treatments for narcolepsy target OX receptors, highlighting their importance.
GoodSupportsHIGH confidence
Central OX administration acutely promotes feeding... OX neurons directly innervate neurons located in reward regions of the brain... as well as a host of regions and signals that regulate arousal... OX neurons poly-synaptically regulate BAT... white adipose tissue... liver... pancreas... and the gastrointestinal system.
Why this rating
Based on multiple studies including genetic manipulation and pharmacological interventions.
Source
To ingest or rest? Specialized roles of lateral hypothalamic area neurons in coordinating energy balance
Juliette A. Brown et al. · Frontiers in Systems Neuroscience · 2015
DOI 10.3389/fnsys.2015.00009
narrative_reviewCited 99×
Read the paper DOI resolved against Crossref · corpus check 2026-06-10
More from this paper
- Lateral hypothalamic area (LHA) neurons coordinate energy balance by integrating peripheral nutrient cues with ingestive, locomotor, and arousal behaviors.Good
- Melanin-concentrating hormone (MCH) neurons in the LHA promote feeding and general intake behavior, while their blockade can increase energy expenditure and promote weight loss.Good
- Neurotensin (Nts) neurons in the LHA are implicated in coordinating anorectic stimuli and behavior to regulate hydration and energy balance.Moderate
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