Endocrine Abstracts

Ingested protein has a greater satiating effect than other macronutrients. The underlying mechanism is unknown, but it has been shown that protein induces greater increases in anorectic gut hormone levels than carbohydrate or fat. It was hypothesised that these effects could be mediated by specific amino acids comprising the protein. We therefore examined the effects of specific amino acids on food intake and gut hormone release. Fasted male Wistar rats received an oral gavage...

Obesity is a major worldwide health problem with limited treatment options. Recent research has highlighted the importance of gastrointestinal (GI) nutrient sensing in the regulation of food intake and metabolism. Protein as a macronutrient induces the strongest feeling of satiety per calorie. However, different types of protein have varying effects on appetite, suggesting protein induced satiety may be due to the specific amino acids generated by protein digestion. We have id...

The hypothalamo-pituitary–thyroid (HPT) axis maintains controlled systemic levels of thyroid hormone (TH). This is achieved through negative feedback via the hypothalamic arcuate and paraventricular nuclei. The effects of thyroid hormone in other hypothalamic nuclei are yet to be elucidated. Administration of triiodothyronine (T3, thyroid hormone) into the hypothalamic ventromedial nucleus (VMN) increases food intake in rats. Thyroid hormone activation and inac...