Researchers have discovered the mechanism by which a cluster of astrocytes, specialized brain cells, in the hypothalamus cause obesity in mice. Their study also identified a drug that inhibited the process, leading to weight loss without compromising appetite or food intake.

The brain’s hypothalamus contains key areas that control food intake and energy expenditure, and these areas contain most of the neurons involved in feeding and body weight control. Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is the dominant neurotransmitter in the hypothalamus, acting on GABA A receptors. An inhibitory neurotransmitter, GABA helps ensure your body has the energy to function by controlling when you feel hungry and letting you know when you’ve had enough. Once you’re full, GABA blocks the hunger signal so you don’t overeat.

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The lateral hypothalamus (LH) or lateral hypothalamic area (LHA) is known as the ‘hunger center’ of the brain. One of its main functions is stimulating feeding behavior; when it’s stimulated, it causes the sensation of hunger. While it’s known that the neurons in the LH are connected to fat tissue and involved in fat metabolism, their mechanism of action in regulating fat metabolism has remained elusive. New research led by the Institute for Basic Science in South Korea has examined cells in the lateral hypothalamus of mice, focusing on the role that a particular kind of cell, astrocytes, plays in the regulation of fat metabolism.

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