Recent trends in orexin research--2010 to 2015

Specific neurons in the lateral hypothalamus produce the orexin neuropeptides (orexin-A and orexin-B). The orexin-peptides are transported to areas of the brain regulating sleep-wake cycles, controlling food intake or modulating emotional states such as panic or anxiety. The orexin system, consisting of the two orexin-neuropeptides and two G-protein-coupled receptors (the orexin-1 and the orexin-2 receptor) is as well involved in reward and addictive behaviors. The review reflects on the most recent activities in the field of orexin research.

Addiction; Anxiety; G-protein-coupled receptors; Hypothalamus; Orexin; Sleep disorders.