Skip to main content

Orexin Signaling

Meaning

Orexin Signaling, also known as hypocretin signaling, refers to the crucial neuropeptide pathway originating in the lateral hypothalamus that acts as a master regulator of the sleep-wake cycle, appetite, and energy expenditure. This signaling system strongly promotes and stabilizes wakefulness, inhibits REM sleep, and is intimately involved in the motivational and reward aspects of behavior. A functional, robust orexin system is essential for maintaining sustained alertness, optimal hormonal release patterns, and metabolic homeostasis.