Researchers from Monash University unraveled a molecular mechanism that depends on the combined action of two hormones - leptin, an appetite suppressant generated in fat cells, and insulin, produced in the pancreas.


It gives new insights into how the brain regulates body fat and may lead to more effective ways to lose weight and prevent obesity by promoting the conversion of 'bad' white fat to 'good' brown fat.

"These hormones give the brain a comprehensive picture of the fatness of the body," said lead researcher professor Tony Tiganis.


Whereas insulin provides a measure of future fat reserves because glucose levels rise when we eat.

"Eventually, we think we may be able to help people lose weight by targeting these two enzymes. Turning white fat into brown fat is a very exciting new approach to developing weight-loss agents," professor Tiganis concluded.

The study was published in the journal Cell.

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