Leptin regulation of neuronal excitability and cognitive function

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    154 Citations (Scopus)

    Abstract

    Leptin, a hormone produced by adipocytes, provides signals to specific regions of the hypothalamus to control energy homeostasis. However, the past decade of research has not only revealed that-leptin receptors are widely expressed in the CNS, but has also identified numerous additional functions for this hormone in the brain. In particular, there is evidence that leptin influences neuronal excitability via the activation as well as trafficking of specific potassium channels in several brain regions. Leptin-induced alterations in neuronal excitability have been implicated in the regulation of food intake, reward behaviour and anti-convulsant effects. A number of studies have also identified a role for leptin in cognitive processes that involve activation of leptin receptors in limbic structures, such as the hippocampus. Indeed, leptin influences hippocampal-dependent learning and memory, and more recently leptin has been shown to have anti-depressant properties.

    Characterisation of these novel actions of leptin is providing valuable insights into the role of this hormone in the regulation of diverse neuronal functions in health and disease.

    Original languageEnglish
    Pages (from-to)643-647
    Number of pages5
    JournalCurrent Opinion in Pharmacology
    Volume7
    Issue number6
    DOIs
    Publication statusPublished - Dec 2007

    Keywords

    • LONG-TERM POTENTIATION
    • RAT HIPPOCAMPAL-NEURONS
    • ATP CHANNEL ACTIVATION
    • ACTIN CYTOSKELETON
    • SIGNALING PATHWAYS
    • RAPID INHIBITION
    • DYNAMIC CHANGES
    • BK CHANNELS
    • RECEPTOR
    • MEMORY

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