title: Insulin receptors and insulin actions in the nervous system.
abstract: Insulin receptors are widely distributed in the brain. They are also present in peripheral nerve. Insulin signaling through its receptors in the brain is responsible for the hormone's effects on the regulation of food intake, body weight, and reproduction. Signaling through the insulin receptor also appears to influence higher cognitive functions. In peripheral nerve, insulin signaling may play a role in the maintenance and repair of myelinated fibers. Future studies should determine the extent to which a defective insulin signal may be linked to the pathogenesis of diabetic neuropathies and neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's disease.
authors: P
authors: P
authors: Freychet
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D003929:Diabetic Neuropathies / Q000503:physiopathology*; D006801:Humans; D007328:Insulin / Q000502:physiology*; D009420:Nervous System / Q000503:physiopathology; D009424:Nervous System Physiological Phenomena; D019636:Neurodegenerative Diseases / Q000503:physiopathology*; D011972:Receptor, Insulin / Q000502:physiology*
chemical_list: D007328:Insulin; D011972:Receptor, Insulin