Xenin – Other Categories

Leptin and melanocortin are well characterised for their roles in energy balance and the regulation of feeding. However, xenin was subsequently isolated from human gastric mucosa and identified as a gastrointestinal peptide hormone. Evidence shows xenin plasma levels rise after meals while administration of xenin leads to feelings of satiation. Unfortunately, the mechanism of xenin regulation on food uptake is still not fully understood. Work has shown xenin negatively effects food intake by a dose dependent manner, the hypothalamus seems to have a key role in this. Furthermore, the signally pathways activated by xenin is independent of those used by leptin or melanocortins. Further work with xenin could provide vital answers to the inhibitory mechanism of this gastrointestinal hormone. It would provide more data to help tackle the ongoing obesity crisis and rise in the number of diabetic patients.