What is the role of orexin-A and orexin-B in the regulation of arousal and sleep-wake balance?
Label:chem
Topic
Orexin-A and orexin-B are neuropeptides that bind to and activate two closely related G protein-coupled receptors, orexin-1 (OX1) and orexin-2 (OX2). These peptides are derived from a single precursor protein (prepro-orexin) and are highly conserved across vertebrate species.
Answer
Orexin-A and orexin-B play a crucial role in regulating arousal and sleep-wake balance. Orexin-A levels are higher during active waking periods, and their concentration is decreased in the cerebrospinal fluid of narcoleptic individuals. These peptides are synthesized exclusively by neurons in the perifornical and lateral hypothalamic areas and project into brain regions related to waking and regulation of slow-wave and rapid-eye-movement (REM) sleep.
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