Agouti-related peptide

Agouti-related peptide (also known as AgRP) is a neuropeptide produced in the brain by the AgRP/NPY neuron. It is only produced in neurons and is known for its role in the regulation of food intake and energy balance.

Function

AgRP is involved in the regulation of feeding behavior and energy homeostasis. It is an endogenous antagonist of the melanocortin receptors MC3R and MC4R, and it stimulates food intake and reduces energy expenditure. AgRP is expressed in the arcuate nucleus of the hypothalamus, where it is co-expressed with Neuropeptide Y.

Role in disease

Alterations in AgRP function have been implicated in obesity and anorexia nervosa. In obesity, increased AgRP levels may contribute to excessive food intake and reduced energy expenditure. In anorexia nervosa, decreased AgRP levels may contribute to reduced food intake and increased energy expenditure.

Research

Research is ongoing to understand the precise role of AgRP in feeding behavior and energy homeostasis, and to develop potential treatments for obesity and eating disorders based on modulating AgRP function.

See also

• Neuropeptide Y
• Melanocortin
• Arcuate nucleus
• Hypothalamus
• Obesity
• Anorexia nervosa

References

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