The hypothalamic ventral premammillary nucleus: A key site in leptin's regulation of reproduction

Publication date: Available online 27 August 2014 Source:Journal of Chemical Neuroanatomy Author(s): Rebecca L. Leshan , Donald W. Pfaff Reproduction is an energy-expensive process that relies on indicators of energy availability to adjust its proper functioning. The adipokine leptin provides one such metabolic signal, with leptin receptor-expressing neurons at sites widespread within the CNS, including regions associated with the neuroendocrine reproductive axis. One substantial population lies within the hypothalamic ventral premammillary nucleus (PMv), a region itself linked to reproductive control, which may provide a strategic site for the integration of energy availability, sensory and gonadal cues. Here we review our current understanding of leptin and PMv regulation of reproduction, including emerging details about intracellular mechanisms of leptin action at this site.
Source: Journal of Chemical Neuroanatomy - Category: Neuroscience Source Type: research