Genetically Dissecting Chorinergic Signaling in Body Weight Control

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Abstract/Project Summary Obesity-associated diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease together account for the leading cause of death in the United States. Roughly one-third of the U.S. population is obese, and it is estimated that nearly half of the population will be obese within the next two decades. To date, studies investigating the neural contribution to body weight control have focused largely on neuropeptidergic signaling in the hypothalamus, a key brain region involved in feeding behavior. However, signaling from extra-hypothalamic brain regions has also been implicated in regulating nutrient metabolism, appetite, and satiety. We have recently uncovered a novel mechanism by which glutamatergic signaling in the basal forebrain strongly influences feeding and body weight control. This discovery provides intriguing evidence that specific glutamatergic signaling pathways in the brain critically regulate feeding behavior and body weight homeostasis. To elucidate the mechanisms by which forebrain glutamatergic signaling influences body weight management, feeding behaviors, and metabolism, we will test the hypothesis that glutamatergic basal forebrain circuits modulate metabolic and appetitive programs to regulate body weight. Using a combination conditional genetic targeting, optogenetic manipulations, electrophysiology, and behavioral analysis, we will set out to determine the role for basal forebrain glutamatergic signaling in body weight control and obesity.