Control of feeding

Nature Neuroscience ran a focus issue on feeding regulation and obesity commissioning Reviews and Perspectives which examined our understanding of neural regulation of feeding. While obesity and metabolic syndrome are often seen as diseases of the body the CNS is important for regulating feeding metabolism and behavior. The comparison among the uncontrolled intake of drugs and food has led to a spotlight on reward circuitry and its contribution to the regulation of feeding behavior.

The arcuate nucleus of the hypothalamus is recognized as the brain's command center for controlling energy balance. Along with other brainstem and hypothalamic nuclei, the neurons of the arcuate nucleus coordinate energy intake and expenditure. To maintain the homeostasis neurons in these areas must integrate information from other regions of the brain as well as nutrient and hormonal signals from the periphery.