Neuronal SKN-1B Modulates Nutritional Signalling Pathways and Mitochondrial Networks to Control Satiety

Correct responses to nutrient type and availability are a crucial mater for all living organisms. In animals, food-related decisions require the communication of the sensory nervous system with internal body cues. Hunger and satiety play an important role here, controlling food intake and maintaining nutrient homeostasis. In C. elegans, chemosensory neurons sense food and relay information to the rest of the animal via hormones, neurotransmitters, and neuropeptides. These responses have a direct impact in worms’ behaviour and physiology. This study shows that SKN-1B, an ortholog of the mammalian NF-E2 related transcription factors (Nrfs), acts in the two hypothalamus-like ASI chemosensory neurons to sense food,

communicate nutritional status to the organism, and control food-related behaviours. SKN-1B modulates IIS and TGF-β pathways to suppress satiety-induced quiescence and promote exploratory behaviour. Finally, SKN-1B influences physiology by promoting a robust mitochondrial network which is required for energy homeostasis. The work presented here, suggests an exciting role for mammalian Nrf proteins in food-sensing and satiety.