Dissertation for Medicine Doctoral degree at Sahlgrenska Academy, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Department of Physiology
Peripheral Oxytocin System: lmpacts an Eating Behavior, Energy Expenditure, and Esophageal Function
Opponent: Associate Professor James Ernest Blevins, Diabetes Research Center, University of Washington, Washington, USA
Examining committee: Associate Professor Cristina Maglio, Professor Bodil Ohlsson (LU) and Associate Professor Petronella Kettunen
The disputation is held in English.
Welcome to attend online via streaming, via Zoom Webinar.
This thesis investigates how hormones like oxytocin and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) regulate appetite and metabolism, with a focus on differences between males and females.
In rodent studies, peripheral oxytocin activation reduced food intake without centrally mediated side effects, while oxytocin receptors in the vagus nerve were shown to be critical for normal esophageal motility and swallowing, particularly in males. The adrenal glands were identified as a new oxytocin source post-meal, and brainstem GLP-1 activation reduced food intake, with effects on motivation seen primarily in females.
These discoveries highlight potential hormone-based therapies for obesity tailored by sex.