Fat Signals Control Energy Levels in the Brain

According to new research conducted by the Washington University School of Medicine, published in the journal Cell Metabolism, an enzyme secreted by the body’s fat tissue may control energy levels in the brain. The findings suggest that the body’s fat tissue plays a role in controlling the brain’s response to food scarcity, and also suggest that there is an optimal amount of body fat for maximizing health and longevity. “We showed that fat tissue controls brain function in a really interesting way,” said the senior author of the study. “The results suggest that there is an optimal amount of fat tissue that maximizes the function of the control center of aging and longevity in the brain. We still don’t know what that amount is or how it might vary by individual. But at least in mice, we know that if they don’t have enough of a key enzyme produced by fat, an important part of the brain can’t maintain its energy levels.” The findings may help explain the many studies that show a survival benefit to having a body mass index toward the low end of what is considered overweight. To read more about this study, click here.