Novel anti-obesity effects of alpha-lipoic acid mediated by suppression of hypothalamic AMP-activated protein kinase

Body weight is maintained at a relatively constant level over days and months despite variability in food intake and physical activity. To achieve energy homeostasis, the hypothalamus receives information related to energy surplus or shortage from the periphery and controls food intake and energy expenditure. Leptin, an adipocyte derived hormone, is a principal mediator that signals the brain about the stored energy status. Increased leptin signaling in the brain prevents excess energy stores by suppressing food intake and increasing energy expenditure. In addition, insulin and nutrients themselves, such as glucose and free fatty acids, also regulate food intake.