Neuroscience Study Uncovers New Player in Obesity

A recent study published in the January issue of The Journal of Neuroscience revealed how a protein in the brain helps regulate food intake and body weight. Scientists discovered that the alpha2/delta-1 protein in the hypothalamus is necessary for normal function of another key protein, brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). Deficiencies in BDNF have been previously linked to obesity in both humans and mice. When scientists blocked activity of the alpha2/delta-1 protein in mice using gabapentin (an anticonvulsant), the mice ate significantly more food and gained substantially more weight. The findings indicate potential new treatments for obesity and may help explain why medications prescribed for epilepsy and other conditions can cause weight gain. To read more about this study, click here.