The role of fatty acids and their endocannabinoid-like derivatives in the molecular regulation of appetite

Publication date: Available online 19 January 2018Source: Molecular Aspects of MedicineAuthor(s): Renger F. WitkampAbstractIntake, absorption and synthesis of fatty acids, including those produced by the intestinal microbiota are tightly monitored via specific receptors and, indirectly through their conversion into a variety of signalling molecules. The resulting information is integrated and translated to different physiological processes, including the regulation of appetite and satiation. Direct chemosensing of fatty acids takes place via interaction with free fatty acid (FFA) and other receptors. These are present in the oronasal cavity and along the entire gastrointestinal tract, in various other tissues, and, for some receptors also in brain. Results from early studies have suggested differences between fatty acids in their ability to induce the release of satiety hormones or their short-term effects on food-intake. However, more recent findings indicate that this has limited impact on long-term energy intake. Similarly, pharmacological strategies for appetite control via modulation of peripheral fatty acid binding receptors have not met their expectations. Regarding the psychobiology of eating behaviour, there has been a shift towards emphasising the importance of food reward and the cephalic phase response. Lipid-rich foods are highly energy dense. During evolution this has stimulated the development of reward mechanisms, in which fatty acids, in conjunction with carb...
Source: Molecular Aspects of Medicine - Category: Molecular Biology Source Type: research