Neuromedin U (NMU) is a brain-gut peptide whose peripheral activities are 
well-understood but whose central actions have yet to be clarified. The recent 
identification of two NMU receptors in rat brain has provided a springboard for 
further investigation into its role in the central nervous system. 
Intracerebroventricular administration of NMU to free-feeding rats decreased 
food intake and body weight. Conversely, NMU increased gross locomotor activity, 
body temperature, and heat production. NMU, a potent endogenous anorectic 
peptide, serves as a catabolic signaling molecule in the brain. Further 
investigation of the biochemical and physiological functions of NMU will help 
our better understanding of the mechanisms of energy homeostasis.