Researchers from Rockefeller University have discovered a simple neural circuit that controls jaw movements related to eating, as described in Nature. The circuit consists of three neurons that link a hunger-signaling hormone to chewing. A specific cluster of neurons in the hypothalamus, known as BDNF neurons, plays a key role in this process. When these neurons are inhibited, animals exhibit excessive chewing motions, even without food, and eat more. Stimulating the neurons has the opposite effect, reducing food intake and stopping the chewing reflex. This suggests that the impulse to eat might be more reflexive than previously thought.
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It’s fascinating to think that such a small number of neurons could have such a big impact on something as complex as eating behaviour. how do you think this discovery could influence our understanding of eating disorders or obesity?
What an intriguing study on the neural circuit involved in eating! It’s fascinating to learn that such a simple set of neurons can influence something as complex as our eating behavior. The connection between the BDNF neurons in the hypothalamus and jaw movements really sheds light on how our brain regulates basic functions like hunger.