Brainstem NPY cells that make you eat more
How NTS NPY neurons alter NTS circuitry to promote food intake
Researchers will look at how a specific group of brainstem cells (NPY neurons) change brain signals to increase appetite and meal size.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pullman, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11286841 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This work focuses on a small group of neurons in the nucleus of the solitary tract (NTS) that release NPY and norepinephrine and appear to suppress nearby appetite-suppressing neurons. Scientists will use lab experiments in animals to map these cells' connections, record their activity, and turn them on or off to see how that changes eating. They will also test how hunger or metabolic state and chemicals like NPY affect vagal signals to the brainstem. The team aims to clarify the circuit mechanisms that make meals longer so treatments can be developed in the future.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with obesity or chronic problems controlling appetite would be the patients most likely to benefit from therapies that come from this research.
Not a fit: Patients whose eating issues are mainly behavioral, psychiatric, or caused by non-brainstem medical problems may not receive direct benefit from these findings.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could identify new targets for drugs to reduce overeating or to boost appetite when needed.
How similar studies have performed: Previous animal work shows NPY in the brainstem can increase feeding, but detailed mapping of NTS NPY neuron circuits and their local effects is relatively new.
Where this research is happening
Pullman, United States
- Washington State University — Pullman, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Appleyard, Suzanne M — Washington State University
- Study coordinator: Appleyard, Suzanne M
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.