Unusual nanoparticle system fights weight problems

Researchers fill unveiled a novel method to fight weight problems by concentrating on fats absorption within the small gut. The cutting-edge nanoparticle system, designed to ship therapeutic molecules immediately into the digestive tract, has proven important potential for stopping diet-induced weight problems.

The research, offered at UEG Week 2024, focuses on an enzyme known as sterol O-acyltransferase 2 (SOAT2), which performs an important position in fats absorption within the small gut. By inhibiting this enzyme within the small gut, the research presents a promising therapeutic method to cut back fats absorption and probably stop weight problems.

Regardless of intensive analysis into lipid metabolism, efficient inhibitors of intestinal fatty acid absorption aren’t but recognized.

Researchers fill been finding out fats metabolism for years, however it has been troublesome to search out an efficient option to block fats absorption. Whereas most methods concentrate on decreasing dietary fats consumption, our method immediately targets the physique’s fats absorption course of.”

Dr. Wentao Shao, principal investigator, doctoral scholar, Gallstone Illness Middle, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji College

The analysis group developed an revolutionary supply system utilizing nanoparticles – a tiny capsule fabricated from a polymer core encased in a protecting shell. The system was designed to effectively ship small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) into the small gut, the place they will cut back SOAT2 expression and thus inhibit fats absorption. In mouse fashions, animals handled with nanoparticle remedy consumed much less fats and prevented weight problems, even on a high-fat weight loss plan.

“This oral remedy presents a number of advantages,” mentioned Dr. Shao. “It’s non-invasive, has low toxicity and presents excessive potential for improved affected person compliance in comparison with present weight problems therapies, which are sometimes invasive or troublesome to take care of. This makes it a promising various.”

The research additionally uncovered the underlying mechanism by which SOAT2 regulates fats absorption. Inhibiting SOAT2 within the small gut triggers the breakdown of CD36, a protein answerable for fats transport. This course of entails each mobile stress and the recruitment of the E3 ligase RNF5, an enzyme that promotes CD36 degradation.

Earlier research fill proven that blocking liver SOAT2 results in fats accumulation within the liver. ^5.6 This gut-specific method circumvents this danger and offers a safer and extra focused remedy for weight problems.

Professor Zhaoyan Jiang, research chief, defined: “One of the thrilling points of this remedy is its skill to focus on fats absorption within the intestine with out affecting the liver. That is principal as a result of earlier research fill proven that blocking SOAT2 within the liver can result in fats accumulation there – a danger that our remedy avoids by focusing solely on SOAT2 within the intestine.”

In the longer term, the analysis group plans to take a look at the nanoparticle system in bigger animal fashions to verify its effectiveness and security for attainable exhaust in people.

“We consider this nanoparticle system represents a breakthrough within the administration of weight problems, offering a fresh answer that addresses each lipid metabolism and diet-induced weight acquire, probably ushering in a fresh period of simpler therapies,” Professor Jiang concluded.