Uncovering the Brain's Role in Middle-Aged Obesity

A study by Nagoya University suggests that middle-age obesity may be caused by the shortening of specific brain structures that regulate metabolism, leading to weight gain. The study found that a protein called melanocortin-4 receptor (MC4R) detects overnutrition and regulates metabolism and appetite to prevent obesity, and its concentration in primary cilia decreases with age, resulting in weight gain. The research also revealed that dietary restriction could prevent and treat overweight and obesity by maintaining the length of these brain structures.