Aims

To support the free and open dissemination of research findings and information on alcoholism and alcohol-related problems. To encourage open access to peer-reviewed articles free for all to view.

For full versions of posted research articles readers are encouraged to email requests for "electronic reprints" (text file, PDF files, FAX copies) to the corresponding or lead author, who is highlighted in the posting.

___________________________________________

Thursday, November 29, 2007

Alcoholism, craving, and hormones: the role of leptin, ghrelin, prolactin, and the pro-opiomelanocortin system in modulating ethanol intake.
 Volume 31 Issue 12 Page 1963-1967, December 2007


Evidence is growing that appetite regulating peptides such as leptin and ghrelin, but also other hormones including prolactin are altered in alcoholism.

The brain pro-opiomelanocortin (POMC) system which has important mediating roles in alcohol intake also has important functions in prolactin regulation and energy homeostasis.

Furthermore, it has been demonstrated to be functionally integrated with leptin regulation. The satiety factor leptin seems to be counteracted by the gut-derived peptide ghrelin which increases hunger and food intake.

Consequently, the POMC system may have a role in integrating regulation of alcohol effects and these seemingly disparate regulatory systems.

The goal of this mini-review is to discuss the results of some recent investigations of the potential interactions of these systems with acute and chronic alcohol responses.


Read Full Abstract

Request Reprint E-Mail: f.wurst@salk.at
_____________________________________________________________
at