Brain Sensing of Metabolic State Regulates Circulating Monocytes

ABSTRACT: Changes in energy availability alter the dynamics of circulating immune cells. The existing view is that these effects are due to altered nutrient levels affecting peripheral tissue metabolism. Here, using mice, we show that the brain's perception of hunger and satiety alone is sufficient to drive these immune changes. Hunger-promoting AgRP neurons in the hypothalamus are both sufficient and necessary for the reduction in circulating Ly6CHi classical monocytes observed during fasting. Mechanistically, these neurons suppress hepatic mTOR signaling via sympathetic regulation, decreasing circulating CCL2 and monocyte numbers. AgRP neuron-induced corticosterone release plays a permissive role in this process. These changes in monocyte dynamics can occur independently of actual nutrient levels, revealing an unexpected brain-mediated control of peripheral immunity in response to perceived variation in energy state.

ORGANISM(S): Mus musculus

PROVIDER: GSE290851 | GEO | 2025/03/14

REPOSITORIES: GEO