Modulation of Hypothalamic–Limbic Circuits Regulating Appetite in Response to Health Lifestyle in Obese Adults

Nour Shakir Rezaieg, Department of Biology, College of Education for Pure Sciences, University of Anbar, Anbar, IraqFollow
Muthanna M. Awad, Department of Biology, College of Education for Pure Sciences, University of Anbar, Anbar, Iraq

Abstract

Background: Overeating leads to obesity a low-grade inflammatory disease. In this context, aguati-related neuropeptide (AgRP) and ghrelin are pivotal players in appetite regulation, while chemerin is an adipose tissue-secreted adipokine that contributes to low-grade inflammation associated with obesity. Objective: This study used a healthy lifestyle program designed for each obese participant to identify diet-related neuro-hormonal changes in appetite regulation. Design, Setting, and Participants: This a longitudinal quasi-experimental controlled study was conducted from 1^st December 2024, to 30^th July 2025, at University of Anbar. The sample included 100 participants, 50 obese (weight between 100–140 kg) and 50 healthy participants with normal weight. All participants are between 20 and 40 years old. Obese participants underwent body composition assessment using the InBody device and undergoing a 6-month of healthy intervention. Measurements of each of the three variables: appetite-stimulating neuropeptide (AgRP), ghrelin, and chemerin, were performed for obese participants pre- and post-intervention, while these variables were measured for the healthy control group once. Results: Pre-intervention, obese participants showed lower concentrations of AgRP and ghrelin compared to healthy control, while chemerin was elevated. Post-intervention for 6-months, AgRP and ghrelin concentrations increased in obese participants but remained lower than normal levels, while chemerin levels decreased but remained higher than normal levels in healthy control. Significant correlations also emerged between the studied variables. Conclusion: Undergoing to a healthy lifestyle, combining a balanced diet and physical activity, rebalances the neural circuits regulating appetite and energy, providing a potential long-term strategy for managing obesity and improving metabolic health.

Recommended Citation

Rezaieg, Nour Shakir and Awad, Muthanna M. (2026) "Modulation of Hypothalamic–Limbic Circuits Regulating Appetite in Response to Health Lifestyle in Obese Adults," Karbala International Journal of Modern Science: Vol. 12 : Iss. 1 , Article 11.
Available at: https://doi.org/10.33640/2405-609X.3447