The hypothalamus maintains whole-body homeostasis by integrating information from circulating
hormones, nutrients and signaling molecules. Distinct neuronal subpopulations that express and secrete unique
neuropeptides execute the individual functions of the hypothalamus, including, but not limited to, the regulation of energy homeostasis, reproduction and circadian rhythms. Alterations at the hypothalamic level can lead to a myriad of diseases, such as
type 2 diabetes mellitus,
obesity, and
infertility. The excessive consumption of
saturated fatty acids can induce
neuroinflammation, endoplasmic reticulum stress, and resistance to peripheral signals, ultimately leading to
hyperphagia,
obesity, impaired reproductive function and disturbed circadian rhythms. This review focuses on the how the changes in the underlying molecular mechanisms caused by
palmitate exposure, the most commonly consumed
saturated fatty acid, and the potential involvement of
microRNAs, a class of
non-coding RNA molecules that regulate gene expression post-transcriptionally, can result in detrimental alterations in
protein expression and content. Studying the involvement of
microRNAs in hypothalamic function holds immense potential, as these molecular markers are quickly proving to be valuable tools in the diagnosis and treatment of
metabolic disease.