Students' Research Circle    
 
 
» 2023
Call for papers
The conference
Veterinary Session
Veterinary Jury
Biology Session
Sponsors
Awards-list
2022
2021
2020
2019
2018
2017
2016
2015
2014
2013
2012
2011
2010
2009
2008
2007
2006
2005
2004
2003
2002
Home » Archive » 2023

TDK conference 2023

The effect of impaired AgRP neuronal function on body weight, lifespan and behaviour in calorie restricted mice
Balkó Eszter Fruzsina - year 3
University of Veterinary Medicine Budapest, Department of Anatomy and Histology
Supervisor: Dr. Bence Rácz

Abstract:

Neurons expressing hypothalamic agouti-related peptide (AgRP) and neuropeptide Y (NPY) play a crucial role in the development of hunger. AgRP neurons are located exclusively in the arcuate nucleus of the hypothalamus and together with POMC neurons form the basis of the melanocortin system: a set of CNS circuits regulating food intake and energy balance. However, the impact of AgRP neurons on complex, non-feeding related behaviour is less understood and could potentially represent an important link to various mental disorders, such as anorexia nervosa. Using the AgRP(DTR) mouse model we performed various behavioural tests to study the effects of neonatal AgRP neuronal ablation on exploratory behaviour and anxiety. As AgRP neurons are primarily active during negative energy balance and starvation-like states, we also examined the ability of animals with impaired AgRP neuronal function to adapt to a CR regimen. Several studies have shown that CR can be successfully implemented to slow down ageing processes and increase lifespan. Considering the role of AgRP neurons in energy balance regulation, we also test the hypothesis that AgRP neurons are essential for the beneficial effects of CR. Our results indicate that perturbation of AgRP neuronal function can lead to sex-dependent changes in metabolic and behavioural adaptation to CR.

Supported by the ÚNKP-23-2 New National Excellence Program of the Ministry for Culture and Innovation from the source of the National Research, Development and Innovation Fund.



List of lectures