Novel developments in vagal afferent nutrient sensing and its role in energy homeostasis

Abstract

Vagal afferent neurons (VANs) play an important role in the control of food intake by signaling nutrient type and quantity to the brain. Recent findings are broadening our view of how VANs impact not only food intake but also energy homeostasis. This review focuses exclusively on studies of the vagus nerve from the past 2 years that highlight major new advancements in the field. We firstly discuss evidence that VANs can directly sense nutrients, and we consider new insights into mechanisms affecting sensing of gastric distension and signaling by gastrointestinal hormones ghrelin and GLP1. We discuss evidence that disrupting vagal afferent signaling increases long-term control of food intake and body weight management, and the importance of this gut-brain pathway in mediating beneficial effects of bariatric surgery. We conclude by highlighting novel roles for vagal afferent neurons in circadian rhythm, thermogenesis, and reward that may provide insight into mechanisms by which VAN nutrient sensing controls long-term control of energy homeostasis.