Expanding roles of NUCB2/nesfatin-1 in neuroendocrine regulation

Abstract

Nesfatin-1 was originally identified as a hypothalamic neuropeptide, derived from the precursor NEFA (for DNA binding/EF-hand/acidic protein)/nucleobindin 2 (NUCB2), with the ability to suppress food intake, acting in a leptin-independent manner. Departing from this seminal finding, the patterns of expression of NUCB2/nesfatin-1 have been thoroughly characterized in different hypothalamic nuclei and brain areas with proven roles in energy homeostasis, and its potential interactions with other key neuropeptide regulators of appetite have been documented. Intriguingly, recent experimental evidence suggests that NUCB2/nesfatin-1 is also expressed in peripheral tissues with relevant metabolic functions, such as the pancreas, the adipose, and the gut. In addition, evidence is mounting that nesfatin signaling may participate in adaptative responses and in the control of body functions gated by the state of energy reserves, such as puberty onset. Altogether, these observations have broadened our perception of the biological profile of nesfatin-1 that, rather than a simple anorectic signal in the hypothalamus, might operate at different tissues as an integral regulator of energy homeostasis and closely related neuroendocrine functions.