The corticotropin-releasing factor system as a potential target for antiobesity drugs.
Corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF)-related peptides are involved in numerous physiological and behavioral actions, including activation of the pituitary-adrenal axis, stimulation of anxiety-related behaviors and modulation of cardiovascular and gastrointestinal functions. They are also capable of strong anorectic and thermogenic effects. In fact, the CRF system, which promotes a negative energy profile upon activation, could represent a potential target for the pharmacological treatment of obesity. The recent identification of two endogenous ligands for the CRF(2) receptor, urocortins 2 and 3, and the development of selective CRF receptor antagonists, has paved the way for improving our understanding of the specific physiological roles played by each CRF receptor. Based on recent progress, we conclude that the CRF(2) receptor could be a potential target for the development of an antiobesity drug.
Doyon
Christian
C
Département D'Anatomie et de Physiologie, Université Laval, Québec, Canada.
Moraru
Arthur
A
Richard
Denis
D
D000818:Animals; D019440:Anti-Obesity Agents / Q000737:chemistry / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D003346:Corticotropin-Releasing Hormone / Q000737:chemistry / Q000187:drug effects* / Q000502:physiology*; D016503:Drug Delivery Systems / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D007030:Hypothalamo-Hypophyseal System / Q000502:physiology; D018019:Receptors, Corticotropin-Releasing Hormone / Q000187:drug effects / Q000627:therapeutic use
D019440:Anti-Obesity Agents; C101531:CRF receptor type 2; D018019:Receptors, Corticotropin-Releasing Hormone; D003346:Corticotropin-Releasing Hormone