Neuropeptide Y (NPY), a classic neuronal regulator of energy homeostasis, is now also known to be involved in the control of bone homeostasis. Of the five known Y receptors through which the NPY family of ligands signals, the Y1 and Y2 receptors have so far been implicated in the control of osteoblast activity and thus bone formation. Analysis of brain specific NPY overexpressing and Y receptor knockout models has revealed a powerful anabolic pathway likely involving hypothalamic Y2 receptors and osteoblastic Y1 receptors. Furthering our understanding of the mechanisms underlying the involvement of the NPY system in the control of bone could lead to the development of therapies to improve bone mass in patients with diseases such as osteoporosis.
aNeuroscience Research Program, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, St. Vincent’s Hospital, 384 Victoria St, Darlinghurst, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia
bFaculty of Medicine, University of NSW, Sydney, NSW, Australia
Corresponding author. Address: Neuroscience Research Program, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, St. Vincent’s Hospital, 384 Victoria St, Darlinghurst, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia. Tel.: +61 2 9295 8296; fax: +61 2 9295 8281.
ABSTRACT