Leptin, but not Estradiol, Signaling in PACAP Neurons Modulates Puberty Onset.

ABSTRACT: The adipose-derived hormone leptin critically modulates reproductive function, such that its absence results in hypothalamic hypogonadism. Pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP)-expressing neurons are potential mediators of leptin's action on the neuroendocrine reproductive axis because they are leptin-sensitive and involved in both feeding behavior and reproductive function. In the complete absence of PACAP, male and female mice exhibit metabolic and reproductive abnormalities, yet there is some sexual dimorphism in the reproductive impairments. We tested whether PACAP neurons play a critical and/or sufficient role in mediating leptin's effects on reproductive function by generating PACAP-specific leptin receptor (LepR) knockout and rescue mice, respectively. We also g

SUBMITTER: Evans MC 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10341598 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature