Orexins (Hypocretins) and Adrenal Function

O. Jöhren; N. Brüggemann; P. Dominiak

doi:10.1055/s-2004-814569

Hormone and Metabolic Research, Table of Contents

Horm Metab Res 2004; 36(6): 370-375
DOI: 10.1055/s-2004-814569

Review

Orexins (Hypocretins) and Adrenal Function

O. Jöhren¹ , N. Brüggemann¹ , P. Dominiak¹

¹Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Lübeck, Germany

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

Full Text

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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