Effects of therapeutic central replacement of melatonin in pinealectomized animals - implications on feeding behavior and body weight.

Author(s)

Rosana Fátima Dantas Ferreira

• Document type: Doctoral Thesis
• Press: São Paulo.
• Institution: Universidade de São Paulo (USP). Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas (ICB/SDI)
• Defense date: 2015-02-12

Examining board members

Jose Cipolla Neto; Angelo Rafael Carpinelli; Mario Fernando Prieto Peres; Luciana Pinato

• Advisor: Jose Cipolla Neto

Abstract

Melatonin is a hormone with robust and predictable rhythms being a strong synchronizer for the expression of several physiological processes. But in pinealectomized rats plasma concentration of melatonin is abolished, leading to physiological changes such as insulin resistance and imbalance between energy requirement and mobilization from adipose tissue. The aim of the study was to evaluate the effects of intracerebroventricular supplementation of melatonin. We studied food intake, weight gain and peripheral insulin sensitivity. The results obtained indicate that the pinealectomy caused an increase in food consumption and a considerable weight gain. Furthermore, icv melatonin replacement in these animals counteracted both effects. It was observed also that melatonin in control animals regulates body weight, preventing weight gain characteristic of aging. Finally, it was also observed that melatonin-induced decrease in body weight is due to a reduction of fat adipose tissues. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 10/12947-4 - Effects of central melatonin replacement therapy in older animals - changes in insulin signal transmission in the hypothalamus, liver, muscle and adipose tissue.
• Grantee: Rosana Fátima Dantas Ferreira
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate