Scientists discover hidden brain switch that tells you to stop eating
Why it matters: This discovery could lead to new therapeutic targets for obesity affecting millions globally.
- Astrocytes, once thought to be only supportive, are now identified as key players in controlling appetite.
- Glucose from a meal initiates the satiety signal by triggering tanycytes.
- Tanycytes send signals to astrocytes, which subsequently activate neurons responsible for the feeling of fullness.
Scientists have uncovered a previously hidden brain mechanism where astrocytes, long considered mere support cells, are crucial in signaling satiety. This 'stop eating' switch is activated when glucose, post-meal, triggers tanycytes to communicate with astrocytes, which then activate fullness neurons.
