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Horm Metab Res 2004; 36(6): 370-375
DOI: 10.1055/s-2004-814569
Review
© Georg Thieme Verlag Stuttgart · New York

Orexins (Hypocretins) and Adrenal Function

O.  Jöhren1 , N.  Brüggemann1 , P.  Dominiak1
  • 1Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Lübeck, Germany
Further Information

Publication History

Received 20 November 2003

Accepted without Revision 2 Februar 2004

Publication Date:
07 July 2004 (online)

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Abstract

The recently discovered neuropeptides orexin A and B regulate feeding behavior, neuroendocrine and autonomic functions, and sleep-wakefulness by central mechanisms. The expression of orexins and orexin receptors in various peripheral organs and the presence of orexin A in blood indicate the existence of a peripheral orexin system. In rat and human adrenal glands, both OX1 and OX2 receptor subtypes have been described with a predominant expression of OX2 receptors in the adrenal cortex. In male rats, adrenocortical OX2 receptors are much higher expressed than in female rats. Various experimental data demonstrate a stimulatory effect of orexins on the secretion of adrenocortical steroids, mainly on glucocorticoids. Some results also suggest the regulation of catecholamine synthesis and release by orexins. Whether the gender-dependent expression of adrenocortical OX2 receptors has functional correlates awaits future clarification. As plasma orexin appears to rise during hunger and hypoglycemia, orexins may link adrenal functions with energy homeostasis.

Key words

Orexin A - Orexin B - OX1 receptor - OX2 receptor - Glucocorticoids

References

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Dr. O. Jöhren

Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology · University of Lübeck

Ratzeburger Allee 160 · 23538 Lübeck · Germany

Phone: + 49 (451) 500-4357 ·

Fax: + 49 (451) 500-3327

Email: Joehren@uni-luebeck.de