Scientists Discover ‘Switch’ to Block Fat Production, offering Hope for Obesity and Liver Disease Treatment
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A groundbreaking revelation by researchers in Cleveland could pave the way for a novel three-in-one therapy targeting obesity, fatty liver disease, and heart disease. Scientists have identified a previously unknown enzyme, SCoR2, that plays a critical role in the body’s fat production process – and blocking it has shown dramatic results in pre-clinical trials.
Obesity rates continue to climb globally, fueled by increasingly calorie-dense diets and more sedentary lifestyles. This rise is directly linked to a surge in serious health conditions, including heart disease and Metabolic Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD), formerly known as fatty liver disease.
The research, published in Science Signaling, centers on the function of nitric oxide, a naturally occurring gas vital for regulating numerous biological processes. Nitric oxide influences protein function, and maintaining a delicate balance is crucial for health.Disruptions in this balance can contribute to disease development.
Uncovering the Role of SCoR2
Researchers from University Hospitals and case Western Reserve University pinpointed SCoR2 as the enzyme responsible for removing nitric oxide from proteins that control fat accumulation. When SCoR2 is active, it effectively “switches on” fat production.Conversely, inhibiting SCoR2 halts this process.
“We have identified a previously unknown enzyme that the body needs in order to make fat,” explained a lead researcher. “When nitric oxide was removed, fat production switched on, showing that SCoR2 is essential for making fat.”
Blocking SCoR2: promising Results in Mouse Models
The team rigorously tested the effects of blocking SCoR2, utilizing both genetic manipulation and a specifically designed drug.In mouse models,shutting down SCoR2 entirely prevented weight gain and offered notable protection against liver injury. Importantly,the treatment also led to a reduction in levels of harmful cholesterol.
“We have a new class of drug that prevents weight gain and lowers cholesterol – a potential therapy for obesity and cardiovascular disease,with additional hepatic benefits,” stated a senior official involved in the study.
How Nitric Oxide Regulates Fat and Cholesterol
The mechanism behind this discovery reveals that nitric oxide acts as a natural regulator of fat production. According to researchers, in the liver, nitric oxide inhibits the proteins responsible for creating both fat and cholesterol. In fat tissue itself, nitric oxide suppresses the genetic pathways that produce the enzymes needed for fat creation.
Path to Clinical Trials
Researchers are now preparing to advance the drug toward human clinical trials, a process anticipated to take approximately 18 months.
“Our team looks forward to further developing a first-in-class drug to block weight gain and lower cholesterol, with favorable effects on liver health,” said a researcher.
The drug’s development is being supported by the Harrington Discovery Institute at University Hospitals, an association dedicated to translating scientific breakthroughs into tangible treatments for unmet medical needs. The institute boasts an impressive track record, with 227 medicines currently in development, 75 institutions supported, 46 companies launched, 24 medicines in clinical trials, and 15 licenses
Why: Researchers identified SCoR2 as a key enzyme in fat production. blocking this enzyme showed positive results in pre-clinical trials.
Who: Researchers at University Hospitals and Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland led the study. The Harrington Discovery Institute
