Dean’s Seminar Series featuring David Mangelsdorf, PhD – “FGF21 and Alcohol: Eat and Drink, But Don’t Get Too Merry”

Dean’s Seminar Series

David Mangelsdorf, PhD
Professor and Chair, Department of Pharmacology
Investigator, Howard Hughes Medical Institute
Alfred G. Gilman Distinguished Chair in Pharmacology
Raymond and Ellen Willie Distinguished Chair in Molecular Neuropharmacology
University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center

Title & Abstract:

“FGF21 and Alcohol: Eat and Drink, But Don’t Get Too Merry”

Fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) is an endocrine factor that is produced in liver in response to nutrient and metabolic stress and is known to have diverse roles in maintaining lipid and glucose homeostasis. However, the most potent inducer of circulating FGF21 is alcohol consumption. In response to alcohol, FGF21 is released from the liver and enters discrete brain regions where it acts to suppress further alcohol intake and stimulate water drinking. Investigation into the CNS regions required for FGF21’s effects has revealed the existence of complex neural endocrine circuits, which in addition to regulating metabolism, also govern reward behaviors.

Location: New Research Building Auditorium & via Zoom