Effect of gender on food intake, adiposity and immunological responses following lesion of ventromedial hypothalamus in albino Wistar rats

Abstract

Background and Aim: The present study was conducted to assess the gender difference in the role of ventromedial hypothalamus (VMH) on the regulation of food intake (FI), body weight (BW), and immunological responses in albino Wistar rats. Methods: A total of 24 albino Wistar rats were taken for the study and were divided equally into two groups: VMH Group and control Group for VMH lesion, with six male and six female rats in each group. In the experimental group, bilateral electrolytic lesion of the respective nuclei was performed by stereotaxy and postlesion parameters were recorded. In the control group, sham lesion was made. Male‑female difference in each parameter was determined. Results: Following VMH lesion, FI increased significantly in both the sexes (P < 0.001) but the percentage increase in FI was more in female rats. Though both male and female rats showed increase in their BW, in males the increase was significant (P < 0.001). CD4 (Cluster of differentiation 4) concentration decreased significantly in male rats (P < 0.001). Albumin levels decreased significantly (P < 0.01) in both male and female rats, following VMH lesion. Conclusion: The above‑mentioned findings suggest that VMH is an important center for satiety and adiposity in rat models and has differential influence on control of FI and BW gain in male and female rats. The impact of VMH on immunity is stimulatory and the system is more developed in males.