Arnaud Obri

Abstract Hypothalamic POMC neurons modulate systemic energy balance and glucose homeostasis by sensing nutritional state signals. In addition to this classic regulatory mode, these neurons are also activated by the sensory perception of food. Here, we report that food-related sensory cues engage glycogen metabolism in POMC neurons. Genetic depletion of glycogen through various approaches renders POMC neurons unresponsive to food-associated sensory stimuli.

Body weight and body composition Body weight and discrete adipose tissue pad mass were measured using a precision scale. Whole-body composition was determined using NMR imaging (EchoMRI; Echo Medical Systems). Analysis of whole-body fat depots were performed using a 7.0 T BioSpec 70/30 horizontal animal scanner (Bruker) and quantified as previously described.80 Metabolic tests Food intake was measured in acclimatized singly-housed mice using a precision scale.

Abstract Paternal dietary patterns and obesity can affect offspring through epigenetic signals in sperm RNA. By activating hypothalamic Agouti-related peptide (AgRP) neurons in mice to simulate obesity’s effects, we observed changes in the small noncoding RNA payload of sperm.