Nesfatin-1 was discovered as an anorexigenic peptide derived from proteolytic cleavage of the prepropeptide, nucleobindin 2 (NUCB2). It is widely expressed in central as well as peripheral tissues and is known to have pleiotropic effects such as regulation of feeding, reproduction, cardiovascular functions and maintenance of glucose homeostasis. In order to execute its multifaceted role, nesfatin-1 employs diverse signaling pathways though its receptor has not been identified till date. Further, nesfatin-1 is reported to be under the regulatory effect of feeding state, nutritional status as well as several metabolic and reproductive hormones. This peptide has also been associated with variety of human diseases, especially metabolic, reproductive, cardiovascular and mental disorders. The current review is aimed to present a consolidated picture and highlight lacunae for further investigation in order to develop a deeper comprehensive understanding on physiological significance of nesfatin-1 in vertebrates.

Nesfatin-1 被发现是一种厌食肽，来源于前肽前体核结合蛋白 2 (NUCB2) 的蛋白水解切割。它在中枢和外周组织中广泛表达，并且已知具有多效性，例如调节摄食、繁殖、心血管功能和维持葡萄糖稳态。为了发挥其多方面的作用，nesfatin-1 采用多种信号通路，尽管其受体迄今尚未确定。此外，据报道 nesfatin-1 受摄食状态、营养状况以及几种代谢和生殖激素的调节作用。这种肽还与多种人类疾病有关，特别是代谢、生殖、心血管和精神疾病。