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Hunger involves complex cognitive functions that rely on the physiological need for energy. The profound impact that hunger has on complex behaviors indicates that neuronal circuitries that promote hunger should control higher brain functions. I will present evidence that activation of hunger-promoting AgRP neurons in the arcuate nucleus of the hypothalamus readily triggers changes in higher brain regions and behaviors, allocating a time-budget to consummatory responses (e.g., eating). In the absence of food, activation of these neurons leads to vast induction of repetitive behaviors, which can be prevented by using serotonin and dopamine reuptake inhibitors. Thus, we unmasked a hypothalamic neuronal population that regulates both homeostatic functions and complex behaviors.

More readings:
Hypothalamic control of energy balance: insights into the role of synaptic plasticity. Marcelo O Dietrich, Tamas L Horvath. Trends in Neurosciences ; 2013. DOI:10.1016/j.tins.2012.12.005

AgRP neurons regulate development of dopamine neuronal plasticity and nonfood-associated behaviors. Marcelo O Dietrich, Jeremy Bober, Jozélia G Ferreira, Luis A Tellez, Yann S Mineur, Diogo O Souza, Xiao-Bing Gao, Marina R Picciotto, Ivan Araújo, Zhong-Wu Liu, Tamas L Horvath. Nature Neuroscience 2012; 15(8):1108-10

AgRP neurons: the foes of reproduction in leptin-deficient obese subjects. Marcelo O Dietrich, Tamas L Horvath. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.2012; 109(8):2699-700

See also: http://www.researchgate.net/profile/Marcelo_Dietrich/publications/