negative regulation of feeding behavior

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

Any process that stops, prevents or reduces the frequency, rate or extent of feeding behavior. [GOC:obol]

Negative regulation of feeding behavior is a complex process that involves a variety of physiological and neural mechanisms. The goal of this process is to suppress appetite and reduce food intake. This is essential for maintaining energy homeostasis and preventing obesity.

**Physiological mechanisms:**

* **Hormonal signals:** Hormones like leptin, insulin, cholecystokinin (CCK), and peptide YY (PYY) are released from the gastrointestinal tract and adipose tissue in response to food intake. These hormones act on the hypothalamus, a brain region that regulates appetite, to promote satiety and reduce food intake.
* **Gut-brain communication:** The gut microbiome plays a role in regulating appetite. Gut bacteria produce short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) that can influence appetite and food intake.
* **Metabolic signals:** Glucose, fatty acids, and other metabolites can also signal to the brain to regulate appetite.

**Neural mechanisms:**

* **Hypothalamus:** The hypothalamus is a key brain region involved in regulating appetite. Specific neurons in the hypothalamus are responsible for stimulating or suppressing appetite.
* **Reward system:** The brain's reward system is also involved in regulating food intake. Certain foods can trigger the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure, which can lead to overeating.
* **Higher brain regions:** Other brain regions, including the prefrontal cortex and amygdala, also play a role in regulating appetite by influencing decision-making and emotional responses to food.

**Factors influencing negative regulation of feeding behavior:**

* **Nutritional status:** The body's energy stores and nutritional status influence appetite. For example, when energy stores are low, the body will promote food intake.
* **Time of day:** Circadian rhythms can influence appetite. For example, people tend to be hungrier in the evening.
* **Stress:** Stress can lead to overeating or undereating, depending on the individual.
* **Genetics:** Genetics can play a role in appetite regulation and susceptibility to obesity.

**Consequences of dysregulation:**

* **Obesity:** If the negative regulation of feeding behavior is impaired, it can lead to excessive food intake and obesity.
* **Eating disorders:** Conversely, over-regulation of feeding behavior can lead to eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa.

Overall, negative regulation of feeding behavior is a complex and multifaceted process that is essential for maintaining energy homeostasis. Understanding the mechanisms involved in this process is crucial for developing strategies to prevent obesity and other metabolic disorders.'
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Proteins (1)

Compounds (19)