Liver phosphoproteomics in response to AgRP activated neurons in the presence/absence of NPY

Autophagy represents a key regulator of aging and metabolism upon cell autonomous sensing of energy deprivation. We find that fasting in mice activates autophagy in liver paralleled by activation of hypothalamic AgRP neurons. Optogenetic and chemogenetic activation of AgRP neurons induces autophagy, alters phosphorylation of autophagy regulators and promotes ß-oxidation in the liver. AgRP neuron dependent induction of liver autophagy relies on NPY expression in these neurons. AgRP neuron projections in the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus (PVH) and the lateral hypothalamus (LHA) mediate AgRP neuron-dependent control of liver autophagy. Conversely, inhibiting AgRP neurons during energy deprivation abrogates induction of hepatic autophagy and re-wiring of metabolism. Finally, AgRP neuron activation increases circulating corticosterone concentrations, and reduction of hepatic glucocorticoid receptor expression attenuates AgRP neuron-dependent activation of hepatic autophagy. Collectively, our study reveals a fundamental regulatory principle of non-cell autonomous control of liver autophagy in control of metabolic adaptation during nutrient deprivation.