The nucleus accumbens regulates food intake

Nucleus accumbens (Acc) is considered a decisive structure for the expression of motivational behaviors such as feeding. It is divided into two regions: ventromedial (shell) region is related to consummatory behavior: the dorsolateral (core) region is linked to anticipatory behavior. Acc is a primordial element for feeding behavior, due to its anatomical relationship to hypothalamic nuclei involved in food intake, especially the lateral hypothalamus. Afferents from thalamus and cortex to the core region play a role on the expression of anticipatory behavior. Likewise, the mesolimbic system releases dopamine to Acc, with a reward effect after food intake. The role of other neurotransmission systems producing an effect in food intake is being explored. The role of Acc in food intake regulation is a process integrating core and shell and also other regions of the nervous system, in order to produce feeding behavior.