Links between glucocorticoid responsiveness and obesity: Involvement of food intake and energy expenditure

Abstract

Activation of the hypothalamo-pituitary adrenal (HPA) axis and the secretion of glucocorticoids influences energy homeostasis via effects on food intake and energy expenditure. Furthermore, abdominal obesity is associated with hyperactivity of the HPA axis, which is driven by impaired glucocorticoid negative feedback. Recent data, however, suggests that altered glucocorticoid secretion may precede the onset of obesity. In any given population, there is great variation in the glucocorticoid secretory response to stress, with individuals identified as either high (HR) or low responders (LR). Sheep characterised as HR, have relatively increased food intake in response to stress, impaired satiet..