Endocrine Abstracts

Augurin is a putative neuropeptide product of the esophageal cancer-related gene-4. We have previously demonstrated intra-cerebroventricular (ICV) and intra-paraventricular nucleus (iPVN) administration of augurin (71–148) stimulates the hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal axis in male Wistar rats. This effect was dependent on the release of CRH. Since CRH is known to inhibit feeding, we hypothesised augurin (71–148) would have similar actions. We therefore investigated the effects of augurin (71–148) on light and dark phase feeding in male Wistar rats. I.c.v. administration of augurin had no significant effects on feeding. In contrast, iPVN administration of augurin (1 and 2 nmol) to ad libitum fed rats during early dark phase (1900–2000 h) significantly increased food intake 0–1 h after injection (0–1 hour food intake/g: vehicle 4.8±0.3; augurin 1 nmol 6.8±1.0, P<0.05; 2 nmol 7.3±0.4, P<0.01). Similarly, iPVN administration of augurin (0.5 nmol, 1 and 2 nmol) to ad libitum fed rats during early light phase (0900–1000 h) significantly increased food intake 0–1 hours after injection (0–1 hour food intake/g: vehicle 0.7±0.1; augurin 0.5 nmol 1.8±0.4, P<0.05; 1 nmol 2.1±0.4, P<0.05; 2 nmol 2.1±0.3, P<0.01).

These studies are the first to suggest a role for augurin in the stimulation of feeding. The effect may be mediated via the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus. Further work is now needed to determine the precise mechanisms behind these effects and whether augurin has an important role in feeding behaviour.

Declaration of funding: This research was funded by programme grants from the MRC (G7811974) and Wellcome Trust (072643/Z/03/Z) and by an EU FP6 Integrated Project Grant LSHM-CT-2003-503041. We are also grateful for support from grants for equipment from the Society for Endocrinology. K Beale was supported by a Jean Shanks Foundation PhD Studentship.