Injection of alpha-MSH, but not beta-endorphin, into the PVN decreases POMC gene expression in the ARC

Eun-Mee Kim, MK Grace, E O'Hare, CJ Billington, AS Levine

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

beta-Endorphin (beta-END) and alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH), neuropeptides derived from proopiomelanocortin (POMC), have opposite effects on eating behavior. We injected rats with alpha-MSH (0.6 nmol) or beta-END (1 nmol) into the PVN (three times in a 26 h period). These doses of alpha-MSH and beta-END decreased and increased feeding respectively. Following alpha-MSH administration into the PVN, m RNA levels of POMC decreased by 17%, whereas there was no significant change in gene expression of either proDynorphin or proEnkephalin. PVN injection of beta-END failed to alter gene expression of POMC, proDynorphin or proEnkephalin. These data suggest that a feedback pathway exists between the PVN and ARC for alpha-MSH and POMC, but not for beta-END and POMC.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)497-500
JournalNeuroReport
Volume13
Issue number4
Publication statusPublished (in print/issue) - Mar 2002

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