CRH and hydrops fetalis: We have previously identified leptin as an important regulator of HPA axis through suppressing α-adrenergic signaling7, and our comprehensive analysis of leptin and NE-HPA axis circuitry – NE in the PVN, CRH in the ME, serum corticosterone – demonstrated an uncoupling within the system in DIO but not DR rats chronically exposed to HF diet3.