Answer
The arcuate nucleus of the hypothalamus has important roles in appetite regulation. It has receptors for ghrelin, leptin, insulin, neuropeptide y (NPY) and cholecystokinin (CCK).
There are two neural networks of the arcuate nucleus that are concerned with the moderation of hunger and appetite.:
Network I. This group of nerves secrete NPY which a powerful appetite stimulator.
The second network secretes melanocortin and has several divergent effect:
. Melanocortin suppresses appetite.
Work Step by Step
Ghrelin stimulates NPY secretion; but insulin, PYY, and and leptin inhibit NPY. Leptin stimulates melanocortin but suppresses the secretion of the appetite suppressing endocannabinoids.
