Abstract: To explore the effect on obesity by deep brain stimulation(DBS) in the rat nucleus accumbens (NAc) shell,and to elucidate the feasibility of DBS for obesity treatment.
Methods 30 rats were randomly divided into DBS group(n=15) and control group(n=15).High fat feed was given from the beginning,and electrode fixing device and electrode were implanted stereotacticly.The rats in DBS group were given high frequency stimulation for 7 d,the rats in control group were not given stimulation.After electrode pulled-out,the rats in two groups were observed for another 28 d.In the whole experimental course (57 d),the body weight,food intake,and water intake were monitored every day.A comprehensive comparison of weight gain rate,food intake and water intake was conducted.Results  From the fifth day after NAc shell stimulation,the weight gain rates of  the rats in DBS group were lower than those in control group (P<0.05).At the end of the experiment,the weight gain rate reached to 10.2% and 35.7% in DBS group and control group.In the stimulation period,a food intake reduction was observed in DBS group（P<0.05）.After  stimulation,the difference of food intake was no longer existed.The water intake during the whole experiment had no obvious changes in both groups(P>0.05).Conclusion NAc shell could be an ideal target for DBS in treatment of obesity in rats.On the one hand,it can limit feeding behavior,and reduce food intake;on the other hand,it may interact with energy homeostasis system,increase energy expenditure and decrease weight growth of rats.

Key words: obesity, deep brain stimulation, nucleus accumbens