Appetite Hormone Resistance is a physiological state where target tissues, particularly within the hypothalamus, become desensitized to the regulatory signals of key appetite-modulating hormones like leptin and insulin. This resistance disrupts the body’s accurate perception of satiety and energy status, often leading to persistent hunger and dysregulated energy intake. Clinically, this phenomenon is a significant driver of weight gain and metabolic dysfunction. It represents a critical failure in the homeostatic control of energy balance.
Origin
The term combines concepts from endocrinology, which studies hormones, and neurobiology, which examines the central nervous system’s control of appetite. It draws a parallel with insulin resistance, applying the concept of receptor insensitivity to the complex network of hunger and satiety signals. This recognition has evolved as scientists have mapped the complex gut-brain axis regulating energy homeostasis. The clinical use of the term reflects the pathological loss of hormonal communication.
Mechanism
The primary mechanism involves chronic overexposure to high levels of hormones like leptin and insulin, leading to reduced signaling efficiency at their respective hypothalamic receptors. This impaired communication prevents the brain from correctly registering the body’s ample energy stores, perpetuating a state of perceived energy deficit. The resultant downstream effect is a failure to suppress appetite and increase energy expenditure, thereby promoting further weight gain. This resistance fundamentally alters the physiological set point for body mass.
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