Proteins Controlling Fatty Food Appetite Found

Researchers have found one natural brain protein that triggers craving for fatty food and a second that blocks the desire, raising hopes for a new drugs that could curb weight gain without suppressing appetite.

Blocking the first protein or administering the second can cut body weight in animals 50%, researchers reported.

Drug companies are rushing to take advantage of the discoveries, which could lead to drugs that block fat cravings without interfering with the desire for protein and carbohydrates, the researchers said.

It is the first time scientists have identified substances that act specifically on the appetite for fats, the researchers reported in Milwaukee on Tuesday at the annual meeting of the North American Assn. for the Study of Obesity.

“We are extremely close to linking specific brain areas to specific appetites,” said Sarah Leibowitz, a biologist at Rockefeller University in New York City.

Leibowitz identified a protein in the brain called galanin and has shown that its level rises throughout the morning to stimulate an appetite for fats at lunch and continues to rise until dinner time.

She also has shown that it rises in adolescent girls at puberty, preparing them to take on more fat in anticipation of pregnancy, when they need energy reserves to nourish offspring.

In another report, David York of Louisiana State University described the discovery of a protein called enterostatin, which cuts fat intake 50% to 80% when injected into animals.

York said it might be possible to administer the substance in pill form. Tests with humans are expected to begin early next year, but it may be eight to 10 years before the experiments lead to a new diet drug, he said.