What is the physiological role of hypothalamic tanycytes in metabolism?

In vertebrates, the energy balance process is tightly controlled by complex neural circuits that sense metabolic signals and adjust food intake and energy expenditure in line with the physiological requirements of optimal conditions. Within neural networks controlling energy balance, tanycytes are peculiar ependymoglial cells that are nowadays recognized as multifunctional players in the metabolic hypothalamus. However, the physiological function of hypothalamic tanycytes remains unclear, creating a number of ambiguities in the field. Here, we review data accumulated over the years that demonstrate the physiological function of tanycytes in the maintenance of metabolic homeostasis, opening up new research avenues. The presumed involvement of tanycytes in the pathophysiology of metabolic disorders and age-related neurodegenerative diseases will be finally discussed.

Automated summary

Tanycytes, peculiar cells in the metabolic hypothalamus, play a multifunctional role in controlling energy balance. Their physiological function in maintaining metabolic homeostasis is still unclear, leading to ambiguity in the field and providing new research directions. Furthermore, the potential involvement of tanycytes in metabolic disorders and age-related neurodegenerative diseases will be discussed.