Tanycyte, the neuron whisperer

Reciprocal communication between neurons and glia is essential for normal brain functioning and adequate physiological functions, including energy balance. In vertebrates, the homeostatic process that adjusts food intake and energy expenditure in line with physiological requirements is tightly controlled by numerous neural cell types located within the hypothalamus and the brainstem and organized in complex networks. Within these neural networks, peculiar ependymoglial cells called tanycytes are nowadays recognized as multifunctional players in the physiological mechanisms of appetite control, partly by modulating orexigenic and anorexigenic neurons. Here, we review recent advances in tanycytes' impact on hypothalamic neuronal activity, emphasizing on arcuate neurons.

Automated summary

Reciprocal communication between neurons and glia is crucial for normal brain functioning and energy balance regulation. Tanycytes, a type of ependymoglial cells, play a multifunctional role in the physiological mechanisms of appetite control, primarily by modulating orexigenic and anorexigenic neurons within neural networks in the hypothalamus and brainstem. Recent studies have highlighted the impact of tanycytes on hypothalamic neuronal activity, particularly in arcuate neurons.