Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart3h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

12. The Central Nervous System

Introduction to the Central Nervous System

Anatomy & Physiology

12. The Central Nervous System

Introduction to the Central Nervous System

Previous problemNext problem

Problem L3.4

Textbook Question

A new diet wonder drug is designed to block the release of orexins. How might this cause weight loss? Predict the potential adverse effects that might come from blocking orexin release.

Verified step by step guidance

Understand the role of orexins: Orexins are neuropeptides produced in the hypothalamus that play a key role in regulating appetite, wakefulness, and energy homeostasis. They stimulate food intake and are involved in maintaining alertness.

Explain how blocking orexins could lead to weight loss: By inhibiting the release of orexins, the drug reduces the stimulation of appetite and food intake. This could lead to decreased caloric consumption, resulting in weight loss over time.

Predict potential adverse effects on sleep regulation: Orexins are also critical for maintaining wakefulness and preventing narcolepsy. Blocking orexin release might lead to excessive sleepiness or disruptions in sleep-wake cycles.

Consider effects on energy balance and metabolism: Orexins influence energy expenditure and metabolic rate. Blocking their release could potentially lower energy levels and slow metabolism, which might counteract weight loss or cause fatigue.

Evaluate broader physiological impacts: Orexins are involved in stress responses and cardiovascular regulation. Blocking their release might lead to adverse effects such as increased susceptibility to stress or changes in blood pressure and heart rate.

Verified video answer for a similar problem:

This video solution was recommended by our tutors as helpful for the problem above

Play a video:

Was this helpful?

Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Orexins

Orexins, also known as hypocretins, are neuropeptides produced in the hypothalamus that play a crucial role in regulating arousal, wakefulness, and appetite. They stimulate hunger and energy expenditure, thus influencing body weight. By blocking orexin release, the drug may reduce appetite and promote weight loss, as the signals that encourage eating are diminished.

Weight Loss Mechanism

The mechanism of weight loss through orexin blockade involves decreased appetite and altered energy balance. When orexin levels are reduced, the drive to consume food diminishes, leading to lower caloric intake. Additionally, the drug may affect metabolism and energy expenditure, further contributing to weight loss by shifting the body's energy utilization.

Potential Adverse Effects

Blocking orexin release can lead to several adverse effects, including excessive daytime sleepiness, fatigue, and potential disruptions in sleep patterns. Since orexins are also involved in maintaining wakefulness, their inhibition may result in a state of lethargy or increased risk of sleep disorders. Furthermore, long-term effects on metabolism and mood could arise, necessitating careful consideration of the drug's safety profile.

Watch next

Master The Central Nervous System with a bite sized video explanation from Bruce Bryan

Start learning

Related Videos

Related Practice

Textbook Question

The part of the brain responsible for the production of language is known as:

a. Wernicke's area

b. The prefrontal cortex

c. The auditory association area

d. Broca's area

618

views

Textbook Question

Declarative memories are formed by the process of ________ that takes place in the ________, and are stored in the ________.

710

views

Textbook Question

Which of the following is not a component of emotion?

a. Visceral motor responses mediated by the hypothalamus

b. Somatic motor responses mediated by the limbic system and the hypothalamus

c. Somatic motor responses mediated by the upper motor neurons of the corticospinal tracts

d. Subjective feelings mediated by the amygdala and the cerebral cortex

446

views

Textbook Question

In a diving accident, Arlene damages the left side of her upper thoracic spinal cord. On which side of the body will she lose: muscle control, tactile sensation, and pain sensation? Explain.

479

views

Textbook Question

Match the names of the supporting cells found in column B with the appropriate descriptions in column A.

Column A

_______ (1) myelinates nerve fibers in the CNS

_______ (2) lines brain cavities

_______ (3) myelinates nerve fibers in the PNS

_______ (4) CNS phagocyte

________(5) helps regulate the ionic composition of CNS extracellular fluid

Column B

a. Astrocyte

b. Ependymal cell

c. Microglial cell

d. Oligodendrocyte

e. Satellite cell

f. Schwann cell

415

views

Textbook Question

a. Contrast unipolar, bipolar, and multipolar neurons structurally.

b. Indicate where each is most likely to be found.

568

views

Textbook Question

Histological examination of a slice of neural tissue reveals a bundle of nerve fibers held together by cells whose multiple processes wrap around several fibers and form a myelin sheath. The specimen is likely to be:

a. A nucleus

b. A ganglion

c. A nerve

d. A tract

420

views

Textbook Question

Neuroglia present in large numbers in areas of bacterial infection in the brain are most likely:

a. Oligodendrocytes

b. Astrocytes

c. Ependymal cells

d. Microglia