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Peptide YY (PYY) is a gut-derived satiety hormone released after meals that suppresses appetite and plays a key role in regulating body weight and energy balance.
Add as Preferred SourcePeptide YY (PYY) is a gut-derived satiety hormone released after meals that suppresses appetite and plays a key role in regulating body weight and energy balance.
Peptide YY (PYY) is a 36-amino-acid peptide hormone produced and secreted primarily by the L-cells of the distal small intestine and colon. It belongs to the pancreatic polypeptide family and is structurally related to Neuropeptide Y (NPY). PYY is released into the bloodstream in response to food intake and signals to the brain that sufficient energy has been consumed.
After its release, PYY travels through the bloodstream to the hypothalamus in the brain, where it binds to specific receptors – primarily the Y2 receptor. This binding inhibits the release of appetite-stimulating neurotransmitters such as Neuropeptide Y, thereby reducing hunger. Additionally, PYY slows gastric emptying and reduces gastrointestinal motility, a process known as the ileal brake mechanism. As a result, food remains in the digestive tract longer, prolonging the feeling of fullness.
Low PYY levels have been associated with obesity and type 2 diabetes. Research shows that obese individuals release less PYY after eating compared to individuals with a healthy body weight, which impairs appetite control. Conversely, in conditions such as anorexia nervosa, PYY levels are often elevated. Following bariatric surgery (e.g., gastric bypass), PYY levels rise significantly, which is thought to contribute to post-surgical weight loss.
Due to its appetite-regulating properties, PYY is being investigated as a potential therapeutic target in the treatment of obesity. Early clinical studies with intranasal and intravenous PYY administration have demonstrated that exogenous PYY can reduce food intake. However, further research is needed before PYY-based therapies can be approved for clinical use.