This record provides bibliographic details and links to the original research. An editorial study breakdown is not available.
What the researchers found
In fetal rhesus macaques, appetite-regulating hypothalamic neurons (POMC and NPY) develop much earlier than previously thought, with POMC neurons appearing by day 32-34 and NPY neurons by day 44 of gestation.
Why it matters
Understanding when appetite-control brain circuits form in primates informs research on how maternal nutrition and exposures during pregnancy may permanently alter offspring metabolism and obesity risk.
The numbers in context
Beta-endorphin/alpha-MSH neurons: day 32-34 of gestation (lateral basal hypothalamus), migrated to medial basal hypothalamus by day 45. NPY neurons: day 44. Kisspeptin: few cells at day 44, expanded distribution by day 70 and 130.
How the study worked
Immunohistochemistry for beta-endorphin, alpha-MSH, NPY, and kisspeptin in fetal rhesus macaque brains at multiple gestational ages. Both male and female fetuses examined.
Who was studied
Fetal rhesus macaques at various gestational ages
What this study cannot tell us
Descriptive neuroanatomical study. Rhesus macaque brain development similar but not identical to human. No functional testing of these neurons. Small numbers of fetal specimens at each age.
Read the original research
Early Development of Hypothalamic Neurons Expressing Proopiomelanocortin Peptides, Neuropeptide Y, and Kisspeptin in Fetal Rhesus Macaques.
eNeuro, 12(7)
Citation
Rønnekleiv, Oline K; Bosch, Martha A. (2025). Early Development of Hypothalamic Neurons Expressing Proopiomelanocortin Peptides, Neuropeptide Y, and Kisspeptin in Fetal Rhesus Macaques.. eNeuro, 12(7). https://doi.org/10.1523/ENEURO.0087-25.2025