Figure 5. Regulation of FAA by Per2.
Under RF conditions, liver Per2 modulates Cpt1a and Hmgcs2 expression, rate-limiting enzymes for βOHB synthesis. βOHB in the bloodstream reaches the brain and probably acts on hypothalamic nuclei and other brain cells. This activates the HPA-axis leading ultimately to food-anticipatory activity. The current study implies the necessity but not sufficiency of Per2 in liver for FAA. Ac-CoA, acetyl-coenzyme A; Cpt1a, carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1A; FAA, food-anticipatory activity; Hmgcs2, 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA synthase 2; RF, restricted feeding; βOHB, β-hydroxybutyrate.