Abstract
In the short time since the hypocretin/orexin peptide system was discovered,1,2 a remarkable body of evidence has accumulated indicating this system's important role in regulating feeding, energy metabolism and arousal.3-6 Considerable progress has also been made identifying the CNS targets and actions of the two hypocretin/orexin peptides (Hcrt/Orx-A and -B) [cf 7]. We have been interested in understanding the actions of Hcrt/Orx on brainstem cholinergic and monoaminergic systems since these systems are involved with controlling arousal and sleep. Considering the extensive innervation by Hcrt/Orx afferents8 and the robust expression of orexin receptor message in these structures,9 it is likely that important components of the wake-promoting and REM suppressing abilities of Hcrt/Orx10,11 are mediated through actions on these systems.12-14 Here we discuss some of our recent findings concerning Hcrt/Orx actions on both the cholinergic and non-cholinergic neurons of the laterodorsal tegmental (LDT) nucleus which form part of the ascending cholinergic reticular system.15,16.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Title of host publication | Hypocretins : Integrators of Physiological Functions |
| Number of pages | 16 |
| Publisher | Springer US |
| Publication date | 1 Jan 2005 |
| Pages | 153-168 |
| ISBN (Print) | 038725000X, 9780387250007 |
| ISBN (Electronic) | 9780387254463 |
| DOIs | |
| Publication status | Published - 1 Jan 2005 |