A recent study has uncovered a specific group of neurons that can trigger a state similar to hibernation when activated. This finding may have significant implications for addressing issues related to obesity, cardiometabolic disorders, and even enhancing long-duration space missions. The research team found these neurons play a critical role in managing the brain-heart-gut connection.
Researchers from Georgia State University have discovered a unique group of neurons that control the brain-heart-gut axis and can be activated to induce a hibernation-like hypometabolic state. This discovery could have extensive applications in various scientific domains, including obesity, cardiovascular health, and space exploration.
The findings are documented in the journal Nature Metabolism.
Professor Eric Krause, a neuroscience expert and a Georgia Research Alliance (GRA) Distinguished Investigator at Georgia State University, led the study. He collaborated with researchers from the University of Florida and the Monell Chemical Senses Center in Philadelphia.
“We pinpointed a group of neurons located near the skull base that transmit the feelings of mechanical stretch from the gut and heart to the brain. When we activate these neurons, it appears to simulate the sensation of fullness or elevated blood pressure,” Krause explained. “Activating these neurons leads to reduced eating as well as lowered blood pressure, heart rate, and overall metabolism.”
During the study, the team found that consistent, simultaneous activation of these neurons in mice induces a torpor-like condition akin to animal hibernation, marked by decreases in heart output, body temperature, and energy use.
“Our research demonstrated that repeated stimulation of these neurons resulted in weight loss and a hypometabolic state without triggering anxiety-like symptoms that are commonly linked to chronic stress,” Krause noted. “This shifts our understanding of how the body communicates with the brain and the substantial effects it has on physiology and behavior.”
The researchers utilized a technique called chemogenetic excitation to activate this group of neurons. By manipulating oxytocin signaling in the vagal sensory neurons using animal models, they could evaluate the effects on various sensory functions.
Oxytocin, often referred to as the “love hormone,” influences how we interact with others. Krause mentioned that the study suggests oxytocin might also affect these neurons, influencing our feelings about ourselves, comparable to what we term “gut feelings” or “heartache.”
He further suggested that activating these neurons could be utilized therapeutically for weight loss without the long-term consequences of hypometabolism or stress-related side effects.
Researchers believe this finding may advance potential treatments for cardiometabolic diseases and enhance lifespan. The concept of torpor is also being examined for possible applications in biomedical therapies, as well as in reducing the metabolic rate of astronauts for prolonged space travel.
Co-author Guillaume de Lartigue, a researcher at the Monell Chemical Senses Center, expressed excitement about the foundational step towards harnessing the therapeutic capabilities of the vagus nerve.
“We’ve tapped into the body’s intrinsic energy-saving mechanisms. By activating these neurons, we can initiate an ancient survival strategy found in mammals,” de Lartigue stated. “If we can manage the body’s energy usage switch, the potential health benefits are monumental.”
Annette de Kloet, an associate professor of neuroscience on the Georgia State research team, emphasized that this research introduces a new strategy for reducing food intake, body weight, and blood pressure without adverse anxiety-related effects.
“This discovery might pave the way for innovative methods that exploit body-brain communication to alleviate stress-induced cardiometabolic conditions such as obesity and hypertension,” de Kloet added.
The research team has also recently secured a $3.4 million grant from the National Institutes of Health to further their investigative efforts.
“Our GRA Distinguished Investigators are acknowledged for their remarkable vision and skill,” remarked Donald Hamelberg, interim vice president for research and economic development at Georgia State. “This latest breakthrough signifies the research excellence these scholars contribute both to our university and to the broader community.”
