Endocannabinoid Signaling in the Hypothalamic Arcuate Nucleus: Identification of Novel Players and Mechanisms Controlling Energy Homeostasis (A07*+)

• Subject Area: Molecular Biology and Physiology of Neurons and Glial Cells
• Term: from 2017 to 2021
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 209933838

In the hypothalamic arcuate nucleus (ARC), AgRP and NPY co-expressing neurons rapidly promote food intake and decrease energy expenditure, while POMC neurons drive gradual onset of satiety and increase energy expenditure. Activation of the cannabinoid type 1 receptor (CB1) by exogenous cannabinoids, such as THC, provokes a robust feeding response, despite the respective individual resides in a state of satiety. This project addresses two major questions: (1) Do local endocannabinoids affect POMC and AgRP/NPY neurons in order to maintain energy homeostasis under physiological conditions? (2) Is chronically imbalanced endocannabinoid signaling in the arcuate nucleus relevant for onset and maintenance of metabolic disorders?

• DFG Programme: Collaborative Research Centres
• Subproject of: SFB 1052: Obesity Mechanisms
• Applicant Institution: Universität Leipzig
• Project Head: Professor Dr. Marco Koch