Identification of a discrete neuronal circuit that relays insulin signaling into the brain to regulate glucose homeostasis

26RFa (QRFP) is a biologically active peptide that regulates glucose homeostasis by acting as an incretin and by increasing insulin sensitivity at the periphery. 26RFa is also produced by a neuronal population localized in the hypothalamus. In the present study, we have investigated whether the 26RFa neurons may be involved in the hypothalamic regulation of glucose homeostasis. Our data indicate that 26RFa, i.c.v. injected, induces a robust antihyperglycemic effect associated with an increase of insulin production by the pancreatic islets. In addition, we found that insulin strongly stimulates 26RFa expression and secretion by the hypothalamus. RNAscope experiments revealed that neurons expressing 26RFa in the lateral hypothalamic area and the ventromedial hypothalamic nucleus also express the insulin receptor and that insulin induces the expression of 26RFa in these neurons. Concurrently, we show that the central antihyperglycemic effect of insulin is abolished in presence of a 26RFa receptor (GPR103) antagonist as well as in mice deficient for 26RFa. Finally, our data indicate that the hypothalamic 26RFa neurons are not involved in the central inhibitory effect of insulin on hepatic glucose production, but mediate the central effects of the hormone on its own peripheral production. To conclude, in the present study we have identified a novel actor of the hypothalamic regulation of glucose homeostasis, the 26RFa/GPR103 system and we provide the evidence that this neuronal peptidergic system is a key relay for the central regulation of glucose metabolism by insulin.