Neurotensin Receptor-1 Identifies a Subset of Ventral Tegmental Dopamine Neurons that Coordinates Energy Balance

Publication date: 22 August 2017
Source:Cell Reports, Volume 20, Issue 8
Author(s): Hillary L. Woodworth, Hannah M. Batchelor, Bethany G. Beekly, Raluca Bugescu, Juliette A. Brown, Gizem Kurt, Patrick M. Fuller, Gina M. Leinninger
Dopamine (DA) neurons in the ventral tegmental area (VTA) are heterogeneous and differentially regulate ingestive and locomotor behaviors that affect energy balance. Identification of which VTA DA neurons mediate behaviors that limit weight gain has been hindered, however, by the lack of molecular markers to distinguish VTA DA populations. Here, we identified a specific subset of VTA DA neurons that express neurotensin receptor-1 (NtsR1) and preferentially comprise mesolimbic, but not mesocortical, DA neurons. Genetically targeted ablation of VTA NtsR1 neurons uncouples motivated feeding and physical activity, biasing behavior toward energy expenditure and protecting mice from age-related and diet-induced weight gain. VTA NtsR1 neurons thus represent a molecularly defined subset of DA neurons that are essential for the coordination of energy balance. Modulation of VTA NtsR1 neurons may therefore be useful to promote behaviors that prevent the development of obesity.

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Teaser

Woodworth et al. identify a subset of VTA dopamine neurons that express neurotensin receptor-1. Ablation of these neurons leads to enhanced physical activity and energy expenditure that protect mice from diet-induced obesity, revealing an important role for VTA NtR1 neurons in the regulation of body weight.


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