Impaired brain protein drives fat cravings and obesity in mice

A surprising brain discovery could help explain why we overeat fatty foods

A protein inside appetite-controlling brain cells may play an important role in preventing overeating and obesity, particularly when high-fat foods are readily available. Unexpected differences between males and females could also help explain why obesity risk—and responses to weight-loss drugs—can vary.

Impaired brain protein drives fat cravings and obesity in mice

Obesity is a global health concern that can contribute to diabetes, cardiovascular disease and other metabolic disorders. While many health conditions can lead to obesity, an increasingly worrying cause is found on grocery shelves: high-fat foods. These foods are known to be hard to resist and can promote overeating.