Pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide modulates circadian feeding and emotional behavior in mice independent of stress-induced hyperphagia

This study identifies PACAP in the VMH as a key modulator of circadian feeding and emotional behavior, while demonstrating its non-essential role in chronic stress-induced hyperphagia. The findings suggest that PACAP selectively integrates circadian and emotional signals to regulate feeding, independent of compensatory neuropeptide systems that mediate stress hyperphagia. These insights advance the understanding of neuropeptide regulation of energy balance and mood, with implications for stress-related eating disorders and anxiety.