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Translating The Message Your Brain Sends When You’re Hungry

If you've got that "hangry" feeling, scientists think they know why. Translating The Message Your Brain Sends When You’re Hungry Giphy

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We’ve all felt the pangs of hunger that can send our day into a tailspin. But why do we all seem to get grumpy and sluggish when it’s been too long since our last meal?

Recent research into the brains of mice seems to provide some intriguing insight into the matter.

A unique cluster of cells

The feeling — sometimes described as “hangry” — that is so common when we need to eat appears to be directly related to the inherent need to replenish energy. Scientists now believe they know which area of the brain is tasked with monitoring those levels.

A group of cells situated near where blood enters the brain kick into action when mice are deprived of food. The neurons, collectively called AgRP, seem to be directly linked to fatty tissue that provides a gauge for how much energy the body has at its disposal.

When the supply reaches a near-critical level, the cells send out an alarm to the rest of the brain sending it on a quest for food.

What it means for humans

While this is a major milestone in the ability to understand the complex brains of animals, some researchers believe that there’s a much more important application to unlocking the secret of AgRP neurons.

In certain cases of eating disorders, such as anorexia and overeating, these brain cells seem to misfire and send conflicting signals to the brain. If science is better able to understand and correct this neural behavior, it could treat a variety of serious health problems.

Neuroscientist Amber Alhadeff is optimistic, concluding: “If we could control this hangry feeling, we might be better able to control our diets.”

In the recent study, researchers were able to deactivate the neurons (causing the mice to starve) and artificially activate them (leading to overconsumption).

Chris Agee
Chris Agee May 26th, 2023
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