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(Reference retrieved automatically from Web of Science through information on FAPESP grant and its corresponding number as mentioned in the publication by the authors.)

Anatomical organization of the melanin-concentrating hormone peptide family in the mammalian brain

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Author(s):
Bittencourt, Jackson C. [1, 2]
Total Authors: 1
Affiliation:
[1] Univ Sao Paulo, Inst Psychol, Ctr Neurosci & Behav, BR-05508900 Sao Paulo - Brazil
[2] Univ Sao Paulo, Inst Biomed Sci, Dept Anat, Lab Chem Neuroanat, BR-05508900 Sao Paulo - Brazil
Total Affiliations: 2
Document type: Review article
Source: General and Comparative Endocrinology; v. 172, n. 2, p. 185-197, JUN 1 2011.
Web of Science Citations: 60
Abstract

More than 20 years ago, melanin-concentrating hormone (MCH) and its peptide family members - neuropeptide El (NEI) and neuropeptide GE (NGE) - were described in various species, including mammals (rodents, humans, and non-human primates). Since then, most studies have focused on the role of MCH as an orexigenic peptide, as well as on its participation in learning, spatial memory, neuroendocrine control, and sleep. It has been shown that MCH mRNA or the neuropeptide MCH are present in neurons of the prosencephalon, hypothalamus and brainstem. However, most of the neurons containing MCH/NEI are within the incerto-hypothalamic and lateral hypothalamic areas. In addition, the terminals of those neurons are distributed widely throughout the central nervous system. In this review, we will discuss the relationship between those territories and the roles played by MCH/NEI, as well as the importance of MCH receptor 1 in the respective terminal fields. Certain neurochemical features of MCH- and NEI-immunoreactive (MCH-ir and NEI-ir) neurons will also be discussed. The overarching theme is the anatomical organization of an inhibitory neuropeptide colocalized with an inhibitory neurotransmitter in integrative territories of the central nervous system, such as the IHy and LHA. Although these territories have connections to few brain regions, the regions to which they are connected are relevant, being responsible for the organization of motivated behaviors. All available information on this peptidergic system (anatomical, neurochemical, hodological, physiological, pharmacological and behavioral data) suggests that MCH is intimately involved in arousal and the initiation of motivated behaviors. (C) 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. (AU)

FAPESP's process: 04/13849-5 - Peptidergic pathways involved in the organization of feeding behavior
Grantee:Jackson Cioni Bittencourt
Support Opportunities: Research Projects - Thematic Grants