Obesity

Gluttony Gene Found In Mice Linked To

Obesity.

Researchers at Georgetown University Medical Center in the united States have linked over-eating in mice to a mutation in the bdnf gene, now dubbed the "gluttony gene".

The Bdnf gene is also found in humans. While it has been linked to obesity in the past, the nature of the link remained unclear, said Yahoo news. The Bdnf gene sends a chemical signal to the brain's hypothalamus indicating that the stomach is full, leading to appetite suppression.

A mutation of the Bdnf gene means this message is not properly delivered and mice with the genetic mutation ate up to twice as much as those without it, said Yahoo report. " This discovery may open up novel strategies to help the brain control body weight, " said Dr. Xu Baoki, the lead researcher from the university's medical centre. Hunger and satiety, the sensation of feeling full are governed by a complex balance of hormonal and neuronal signals, noted the UK Press Association (UKPA).

Two hormones in particular, leptin and insulin, released in the body after a meal play a key role, said the UKPA. "If there is a problem with the bdnf, neurons cannot talk to each other and the leptin and insulin signals are ineffective and appetite is not modified", said Dr. Xu.

Previous work by Dr. Xu has shown that bdnf is important for the formation and maturation and the of synapses during development.

Source: mypaper Tuesday March 20