Uncoupling hyperphagia and fat storage by modulation of different serotonergic receptors

However, they are associated with severe metabolic side effects that remodel energy balance, resulting in weight gain and a persistent increase in food intake (hyperphagia). Here, we compare how antipsychotics and exogenous serotonin induce hyperphagia by remodeling energy balance in the nematode C. elegans.

We find that the ability of serotonin and antipsychotics to remodel energy balance strictly depends on the serotonergic receptors SER-7 and SER-5, respectively. While both molecules induce hyperphagia, serotonin does so by increasing energy expenditure and reducing fat stores. In contrast, antipsychotics induce hyperphagia and increase fat storage, suggesting that antipsychotic treatment impairs fat storage mediated inhibition of feeding.