Scientists discover gene that stops over eating
Australian and Danish scientists have found a gene with a transcription factor called ETS-5, which controls signals from the brain to the intestines.
The gene scientists discovered is found in worms and is like one humans have in the body.
Professor Roger Pocock who lead the research team said, “Because roundworms share so many genes with humans they are a great model system to investigate and gain a better understanding of processes like metabolism as well as diseases in humans.”
The gene alerts the brain once the intestine has stored enough fat, and then the brain receives the message to stop moving.
Once sugar was removed from the worms diet they gained energy as humans would.
Professor Pocock said that ETS-5 is the first time a gene regulator of this kind has impacted brain-intestinal eating processes.
Researchers claim this discovery could lead to pharmaceutical developments that could control obesity by reducing appetite.
"Now that we’ve learned this gene family controls food intake through a feedback system to the brain, it represents a credible drug target for the treatment of obesity,” said Professor Pocock.
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