Leptin's effect on hyperactivity: potential downstream effector mechanisms

Physiol Behav. 2008 Aug 6;94(5):689-95. doi: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2008.04.011. Epub 2008 Apr 13.

Abstract

Up to 80% of patients with Anorexia Nervosa (AN) demonstrate hyperactivity. Hyperactivity counteracts weight gain during treatment and is associated with poor outcome of the disease. We hypothesized that hyperactivity in AN patients has a neurobiological basis and used an animal model-based translational approach to gain insight in mechanisms underlying this hyperactivity. Previously we and others showed that leptin treatment attenuates hyperactivity in the rat activity-based anorexia (ABA) model. The mechanisms involved in this process are, however, unknown. Here we describe potential downstream effector mechanisms involved in the attenuation of hyperactivity by leptin treatment in ABA rats.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Anorexia Nervosa / complications
  • Anorexia Nervosa / metabolism*
  • Disease Models, Animal
  • Humans
  • Hyperkinesis / complications
  • Hyperkinesis / metabolism*
  • Leptin / physiology*
  • Motor Activity / physiology*

Substances

  • Leptin