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NPY/AgRP Neurons

Meaning

NPY/AgRP Neurons are a critical, specialized population of nerve cells located within the arcuate nucleus of the hypothalamus that co-express and release two powerful orexigenic peptides: Neuropeptide Y (NPY) and Agouti-related peptide (AgRP). These neurons function as the primary drivers of appetite stimulation and are central to the neuroendocrine regulation of energy balance and body weight homeostasis. Their activity directly signals the brain’s perception of energy deficit.