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Agouti-Related Peptide

Meaning

Agouti-Related Peptide (AgRP) is a neuropeptide synthesized primarily in the arcuate nucleus of the hypothalamus, functioning as a crucial component of the central melanocortin system. This potent orexigenic signal acts to stimulate appetite and decrease energy expenditure, playing a vital role in the long-term regulation of body weight and energy homeostasis. Clinically, its expression levels are often correlated with states of negative energy balance or perceived starvation. Understanding AgRP is fundamental to deciphering the neuroendocrine control of feeding behavior and metabolic balance.