Modulation of Feeding and Associated Behaviors by Lateral Hypothalamic Circuits.

Our ability to modulate and observe neuronal activity in defined neurons in freely moving animals has revolutionized neuroscience research in recent years. Findings in the lateral hypothalamus (LHA) highlighted the existence of many neuronal circuits that regulate distinct phenotypes of feeding behavior, emotional valence, and locomotor activity. Several of these neuronal circuits do not fit into a common model of neuronal integration and highlight the need to improve working models for complex behaviors. This review will specifically focus on recent literature that distinguishes LHA circuits based on their molecular and anatomical characteristics and studies their role in feeding, associated behaviors (e.g., arousal and locomotion), and emotional states (e.g., emotional valences).