Orexin/Hypocretin: wired for wakefulness

Curr Biol. 2003 Jul 15;13(14):R563-4. doi: 10.1016/s0960-9822(03)00474-3.

Abstract

Orexin neurons play a crucial role in regulating wakefulness and energy metabolism, but until recently, little was known about the factors that influence the activity of these essential cells. Electrophysiological studies have now identified positive and negative feedback signals that allow the orexin neurons to help maintain wakefulness.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Carrier Proteins / physiology*
  • Electrophysiology
  • Feedback, Physiological / physiology*
  • Humans
  • Intracellular Signaling Peptides and Proteins*
  • Models, Biological
  • Neuropeptides / physiology*
  • Orexins
  • Wakefulness / physiology*

Substances

  • Carrier Proteins
  • Intracellular Signaling Peptides and Proteins
  • Neuropeptides
  • Orexins