Innovative Approach Enhances Brown Fat Activity to Boost Calorie Burning and Reduce Obesity in Mice

Scientists at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis have uncovered a groundbreaking method to activate brown fat, a specialized form of fat known for its ability to generate heat and burn calories. This discovery opens promising pathways for tackling metabolic disorders such as obesity and insulin resistance. The research highlights the role of peroxisomes—small cellular compartments—in supplementing the heat-producing capacity of brown fat, especially when mitochondria (the cell’s energy centers) are compromised. Central to this process is a protein called acyl-CoA oxidase 2 (ACOX2), which facilitates fuel consumption in peroxisomes, leading to increased heat production.

In experiments involving mice, those genetically engineered to overexpress ACOX2 in brown fat showed heightened heat generation, better cold tolerance, improved insulin sensitivity, and resistance to weight gain on high-fat diets. Conversely, mice lacking ACOX2 exhibited diminished thermogenic capacity, lower body temperatures in cold exposure, and increased obesity risk. Using infrared imaging and specialized sensors, researchers confirmed that ACOX2 activity correlates with higher brown fat temperatures, suggesting it as a potential therapeutic target.

The study also discusses the back-up mechanisms for heat production in brown fat, emphasizing the importance of peroxisomes in compensating for mitochondrial deficiencies. The findings suggest that dietary strategies or probiotic interventions aimed at boosting fatty acids involved in this pathway could be developed to enhance metabolic health. While current evidence is based on animal models, there is optimism about translating these insights to human health, with potential applications in weight management and metabolic disease treatment. Researchers are also exploring drug compounds that could activate ACOX2 directly, aiming to harness this pathway for therapeutic benefit.

This research not only reveals new cellular mechanisms behind brown fat’s caloric-burning function but also introduces novel targets for metabolic interventions, with long-term implications for combating obesity and related conditions.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-09-rev-brown-fat-calories-limits.html