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Research Description:

Obesity research has provided evidence of diseases impacted by abnormal feeding behavior. These included atherosclerosis, cancer and diabetes. Hypothalamic nuclei such as the Paraventricular nucleus (PVN) and the Lateral Hypothalamic nucleus (LHA) both regulate food consumption.
Central administration of the neuropeptide Orexin in the LHA increases food intake with subsequent c-Fos in the PVN. By investigating the effects and interactions of these two nuclei and their pathways we hope to find potential avenues that may lead to drugs and methods that may block or lesson over-consumption.

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Graduate Level Minor:

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Home Town:

• Sabana Grande, Puerto Rico