Research Information System
Clinical Science Nutrition, no.1, pp.1-12, 2026 (TRDizin)
Nesfatin-1, a pleiotropic peptide derived from the nucleobindin-2 precursor, exhibits widespread distribution in the central nervous system and peripheral tissues. It plays a critical role in regulating energy homeostasis. Its high concentration in the appetite control centers of the hypothalamus indicates that Nesfatin-1 is a potent anorexigenic peptide, which suppresses food intake through melanocortin-dependent but leptin-independent mechanisms. Its capacity to augment insulin secretion and regulate glucose metabolism by activating L-type calcium channels in pancreatic β-cells renders Nesfatin-1 a promising therapeutic target, particularly for type 2 diabetes. Nesfatin-1 has also been shown to be active in hypothalamic and limbic circuits associated with stress, anxiety, and behavioral responses. Levels of Nesfatin-1 exhibit fluctuations in response to acute and chronic stress conditions. Nesfatin-1 has been reported to increase arterial pressure via central oxytocinergic and melanocortinergic pathways in the cardiovascular system. At the peripheral level, it produces vasoconstrictive effects via eNOS inhibition. Although Nesfatin-1 has been demonstrated to possess anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic properties in experimental models, the findings from clinical studies are heterogeneous, and its potential as a biomarker remains uncertain. In summary, Nesfatin-1 is a significant molecule that has the potential to contribute to the development of novel treatment strategies for obesity, diabetes, neuropsychiatric disorders, and inflammatory processes. However, it is imperative to define its mechanisms with precision.