In Spain, specialists from the Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB) in Barcelona conducted a series of experiments that revealed the important role of the protein Neuritin-1 in metabolic processes. The study showed that increasing its concentration in brown fat cells leads to a marked acceleration in calorie burning.
Previously, Neuritin-1 was associated mainly with the functioning of the nervous system. However, new data indicate its significance for energy metabolism. Researchers focused on genes regulating the activity of fat cells to understand which sections of DNA trigger energy expenditure processes in brown fat.
During the study, scientists partially blocked certain genes in laboratory mice and observed changes in their bodies. Particular attention was given to the RAP250 gene, which was found to act as a kind of ‘brake’ on fat cell metabolism. When this gene was deactivated, the mice showed resistance to weight gain and diabetes, even on a high-calorie diet. This was due to the activation of metabolic processes in brown fat.
Further analysis showed that disabling RAP250 affects the function of hundreds of DNA segments and associated proteins. Among them, Neuritin-1 proved to be key, as its production is normally suppressed by this gene. Increasing Neuritin-1 levels stimulated the mitochondria — the cell structures responsible for energy production — and enhanced calorie expenditure.
Based on the data obtained, the scientists developed a gene therapy that increases the concentration of neuritin-1 in fat cells. Trials in mice confirmed that this approach protects the animals from obesity on a high-calorie diet and speeds up fat tissue metabolism. These results open up prospects for creating new methods to combat excess weight in humans.
Brown fat is typically found in infants and young animals, where it is essential for maintaining body temperature. As we age, its amount decreases, giving way to white fat, which stores energy. Recent studies have shown that certain hormones and substances can activate brown fat or cause white fat to function in a similar way. This area is being actively researched in the search for effective solutions to prevent and treat obesity.
