Japanese researchers have identified a gene called CREB-Regulated Transcription Coactivator 1 (CRTC1) that is associated with obesity in humans
Image for representational purpose only. Photo Courtesy: istock
When we eat chips, ice creams or chocolates, we easily end up eating more than one. Now, a team of Japanese researchers have identified the role a gene plays in stimulating the brain, causing people to overeat.
Recently, it became clear that a gene called CREB-Regulated Transcription Coactivator 1 (CRTC1) is associated with obesity in humans.
When CRTC1 is deleted in mice, they become obese, indicating that functioning CRTC1 suppresses obesity.
However, since CRTC1 is expressed in all neurons in the brain, the specific neurons responsible for suppressing obesity and the mechanism present in those neurons remained unknown, according to the study published in the FASEB Journal.
ADVERTISEMENT
To understand the mechanism by which CRTC1 suppresses obesity, a research group led by associate professor Shigenobu Matsumura from Osaka Metropolitan University focused on neurons expressing the melanocortin-4 receptor (MC4R).
They hypothesised that CRTC1 expression in MC4R-expressing neurons suppressed obesity because mutations in the MC4R gene are known to cause obesity.
When fed a standard diet, the mice without CRTC1 in MC4R-expressing neurons showed no changes in body weight compared to control mice. However, when the CRTC1-deficient mice were raised on a high-fat diet, they overate, then became significantly more obese than the control mice and developed diabetes.
High-calorie foods -- high in fat, oil and sugar -- can taste good but often cause overeating, leading to obesity and major health problems.
"This study has revealed the role that the CRTC1 gene plays in the brain, and part of the mechanism that stops us from overeating high-calorie, fatty, and sugary foods," said Matsumura.
"We hope this will lead to a better understanding of what causes people to overeat," Matsumura added.
Also Read: Milind Soman: I don’t go to the gym, I workout for only 15 minutes every day
This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!
