Opposite control of body temperature by NPFF₁ and NPFF₂ receptors in mice

Abstract 

Neuropeptide FF (NPFF) is a neurotransmitter known to modulate opioid functions. This study investigates the effects of RF9, a new antagonist of NPFF receptors, on the roles of NPFF₁ and NPFF₂ receptors in thermoregulation in mice. RF9 (10nmol) injected into the third ventricle did not modify the body temperature as compared to saline, but it completely antagonized the hypothermic effects of 10nmol NPVF, a NPFF₁ selective agonist, as well as the hyperthermic actions of dNPA (5nmol), a NPFF₂ selective agonist. The use of a specific antagonist demonstrates here that central NPFF₁ and NPFF₂ receptors control in an opposite manner the body temperature in mice.

Keywords: Neuropeptide FF, G protein-coupled receptor, RF9, Hypothermia, Hyperthermia