Orexins are novel neuropeptides that are localized in neurons within the lateral hypothalamus and regulate feeding behavior. The lateral hypothalamus also plays an important role in the central regulation of gut function. We therefore hypothesized that orexins might be involved in the central control of gastric acid secretion. To address this question, we examined the effect of central injection of orexins on gastric acid secretion in rats. Intracisternal injection of synthetic orexin-A but not orexin-B dose-dependently stimulated acid secretion while intraperitoneal administration of orexin-A failed to stimulate acid secretion. Vagotomy or atropine abolished the action by central orexin-A. These data suggest for the first time that orexin-A may act in the brain to stimulate gastric acid secretion by modulating the vagal system. Considering its stimulatory action on feeding, we hypothesize here that orexin-A is a candidate mediator of cephalic phase gastric secretion.
Copyright 1999 Academic Press.