Interaction between nesfatin-1 and oxytocin in the modulation of the swallowing reflex

•Nesfatin-1 inhibits swallowing reflex.•Nesfatin-1 activates neurons located within the brainstem pattern generator of swallowing.•Oxytocin fibres adjoin brainstem nesfatin-1/NUCB2-expressing neurons.•Oxytocin inhibits swallowing reflex.•Blockade of oxytocin receptors prevents swallowing inhibition by nesfatin-1. Nesfatin-1, an 82-amino acid peptide encoded by the secreted precursor nucleobinin-2 (NUCB2), exerts potent anorexigenic action independently of leptin signaling. This propensity has propelled this peptide and its analogues as potential anti-obesity drug candidates. However, a more extensive comprehension of its biological actions is needed prior to envisaging its potential use in the treatment of metabolic diseases. Swallowing is an essential motor component of ingestive behavior, which induces the propulsion of the alimentary bolus from the mouth to the esophagus. The dorsal swallowing group (DSG) which constitutes a part of the central pattern generator of swallowing (SwCPG) is located within the solitary tract nucleus (STN), a region reported to contain nesfatin-1/NUCB2 expressing neurons. In this context, we investigate here the possible effects of nesfatin-1 on swallowing discharge. Nesfatin-1 dose-dependently inhibited swallowing reflex and activated neurons located in the DSG region. In addition, we provide evidences that strongly suggest that this nesfatin-1 inhibitory effect involved an oxytocinergic relay. Indeed, oxytocin (OT) injection at the brainstem level inhibited swallowing reflex and OT receptor antagonist prevented nesfatin-1 inhibitory action. Altogether, these data constitute the first demonstration that nesfatin-1 modulates swallowing reflex by acting at the brainstem level via an oxytocinergic relay.