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Orexigenic

Meaning

Orexigenic describes any substance, hormone, or signal that stimulates the appetite and promotes increased food intake, often by acting on the central nervous system to enhance the drive to eat. These signals are crucial components of the body’s energy homeostasis system, working in opposition to anorexigenic signals to maintain adequate energy reserves. Hormones and neuropeptides with orexigenic properties are produced in response to energy deficits or fasting states to ensure survival. Clinically, understanding these pathways is essential for addressing conditions characterized by disordered eating or unintended weight loss.