Scientists have discovered that removing a single gene from fat tissue can significantly boost the body’s metabolism, leading to increased calorie burning without the need for dieting. The research focused on a protein called PHD2, which is found in brown adipose tissue—a type of fat that is activated in cold conditions to generate heat by breaking down blood sugar and fat molecules.
The study, led by scientists from Nottingham Trent University and the University of Edinburgh, aimed to explore the connection between colder environments, faster metabolic rates, and weight loss, a phenomenon observed at higher altitudes where oxygen levels are lower. The researchers found that by removing the PHD2 protein, fat cells could burn calories in both mice and human cells without being exposed to cold temperatures.
Dr. Zoi Michailidou, the lead author, explained that reducing the effects of the PHD2 protein could potentially break the link between being overweight and the development of type 2 diabetes. The study’s findings suggest that targeting this protein could help develop new strategies to promote weight loss by increasing metabolism, potentially protecting against obesity-related metabolic diseases like type 2 diabetes.
Although the research is still in its early stages, the scientists are optimistic that further studies in humans could lead to alternative weight loss approaches that do not require continuous dieting.
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