Elevated leptin levels activate arcuate nucleus neurons that release αMSH (alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone) and CART (cocaine- and amphetamine-regulated transcript) peptides.

These are anorectic peptides, meaning they diminish appetite.

The arcuate neurons project to several brain regions to coordinate responses:

Paraventricular nucleus: Triggers the humoral response (hormonal regulation).

Intermediolateral gray matter of spinal cord: Coordinates the visceromotor response (visceral reactions).

Lateral hypothalamus: Controls the somatic response (behavioral actions, such as physical movements related to food intake).

Review: Motivation (Physiology 2)