Researchers have pinpointed a potential key to why some people can eat freely without gaining weight: the NNMT enzyme, which plays a crucial role in regulating energy conversion in fat tissue.
Reducing NNMT levels
In a study, scientists treated mice with an agent that inhibited the NNMT enzyme in fat and liver cells. Even when fed a high-fat diet, these mice didn't gain weight due to lower enzyme production.
Boosted cellular activity Oxygen consumption increased, meaning the mice stored less fat and burned more energy. This stems from futile cycling in cells—molecules breaking down and rebuilding, a process that consumes energy without net gain.
Faster metabolism advantage The findings suggest naturally slim individuals benefit from rapid metabolism driven by lower NNMT activity. Researchers now hope this could pave the way for obesity treatments.
Expert caution
Sander Kersten, professor of molecular nutrition at Wageningen University, urges caution. Body weight involves numerous factors, and it's unclear if energy-wasting mechanisms can sustain slimness in humans or if mouse results translate directly.
