This project focuses on the role of prepronociceptin (PNOC) neurons in the medial preoptic area (mPOA) of the hypothalamus, which play a critical role in regulating thermogenesis, energy expenditure, and inflammation in adipose tissue. These neurons are part of the intricate neurocircuitry that integrates signals from the central nervous system (CNS) and peripheral tissues, modulating key metabolic processes to maintain energy homeostasis.

Using advanced neuroscience tools, such as chemogenetics, viral tracing, and transcriptomic analyses, we aim to uncover the molecular and functional mechanisms through which PNOC neurons influence adipose tissue functions. Initial findings suggest that activation of PNOC neurons dampens thermogenic activity in brown adipose tissue (BAT) and triggers inflammatory responses in white adipose tissue (WAT), processes that are tightly linked to energy balance and metabolic health. Furthermore, these neurons project to critical autonomic control centers, such as the dorsomedial hypothalamus (DMH) and the rostral medullary raphe region (rMR), which regulate sympathetic outflow to adipose tissues.

By exploring how PNOC neurons mediate the communication between the hypothalamus and adipose tissues, this research aims to shed light on their contribution to metabolic dysregulation during obesity. Ultimately, these findings may identify novel targets for therapeutic interventions aimed at mitigating obesity-associated metabolic disorders, such as insulin resistance and chronic inflammation.