Invited Speaker 4th Metabolic Diseases; Breakthrough Discoveries in Diabetes & Obesity Meeting 2024

Sympathetic regulation of metabolic activities (#28)

Wenwen Zeng 1
  1. Tsinghua University, Beijing, BEIJING, China

The peripheral nervous system serves as a vital link between the brain and the body. Within this system, the sympathetic nervous system plays a crucial role in controlling metabolic functions and maintain energy balance. By unraveling the mechanisms by which the sympathetic nervous system operates, we can gain a deeper understanding of how our bodies adapt to different conditions, leading to improved health outcomes. In our prevous works, via examining the neural connections, we have discovered that the sympathetic nerves are highly concentrated in white adipose tissues and the intestine. Furthermore, we have showed the essential role of the sympathetic nervous system in regulating lipid and glucose metabolism. Through communication with adrenergic receptors, the sympathetic input can increase energy expenditure and influence hormone secretion. As a result, the sympathetic nervous system could affect cellular activities in various organs and influence metabolic homeostasis. Overall, our research endevour is to unravel the functions of the sympathetic nervous system, which would offer valuable insights into how the body adjusts and reacts to various stimuli, ultimately impacting our overall health and wellness.