Nesfatin-1: An Anorexigenic Peptid

Abstract

Nesfatin-1 was identified as a potent anorexigenic peptide. Nesfatin-1 is expressed in the brain and peripheral tissues. Precursor of nesfatin-1 is nucleobindin-2 (NUCB2). This polypeptide is involved in the control of energy balance by food intake. Peripheral nesfatin-1 can potentially affect central nervous food intake regulation either via direct access to the brain. Circulating nesfatin-1 acts in the brain to influence food consumption, peripheral delivery of nesfatin-1may reduce food intake and body weight. Nesfatin-1 appears to contribute to the regulation of food intake by directly and/or indirectly affecting the integration of input and output signals between gut and brain. Nesfatin-1 is association with obesity and glucose homeostasis. Plasma levels of nesfatin-1 can correlate with body mass index, insulin resistance, fasting blood glucose, and fasting insulin levels, as well as with body weight and fat mass, suggesting that nesfatin-1, especially fat-derived nesfatin-1, may play an important rol in human metabolism and food intake. In addition to, lipid accumulation may be reduced by nesfatin-1in cultured hepatocytes. In conclusion, it can be said that nesfatin-1 is not only associated with food intake but also with obesity, insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes.