New Protein Target Offers Hope for Obesity and Heart Disease Treatment

Recent research from the University of Barcelona has uncovered a promising new target for tackling obesity and cardiovascular diseases—an identified protein that suppresses brown adipose tissue activity. Brown fat, known for its ability to burn calories and generate body heat through thermogenesis, plays a crucial role in metabolic health. However, its activity tends to decline with age and obesity, contributing to metabolic dysfunction.

The study, published in Molecular Metabolism, was led by Professor Francesc Villarroya and focuses on a molecule called ACBP (Acyl CoA-binding protein). Traditionally associated with lipid metabolism, this protein has now been found to act as a repressor of brown fat activity in animal models. Under normal conditions, ACBP helps regulate when brown fat should be active, such as in cold environments, but it may also be involved in the age-related and obesity-related decline of brown fat function.

This discovery shifts traditional research perspectives that mostly aimed to identify factors that activate brown fat. Instead, understanding how ACBP suppresses its activity opens new pathways for therapeutic interventions. Inhibiting this repressor could potentially restore brown fat activity, promoting fat burning and heat production, which could be beneficial for obesity management.

Furthermore, the repressor role of ACBP has implications beyond metabolic health. In certain cancers, brown adipose tissue becomes overactive, leading to energy wasting and cachexia. Therefore, manipulating this protein might also offer novel approaches for cancer-related muscle wasting.

Additionally, environmental factors such as global warming are influencing brown fat activity by reducing its activation in warmer climates. Understanding the molecular mechanisms underpinning brown fat suppression, especially the role of ACBP, could help develop strategies to counteract these effects and promote healthier lifestyles.

Overall, this research provides a deeper understanding of brown adipose tissue regulation and holds promise for new treatments targeting metabolic, cardiovascular, and even cancer-related conditions.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-06-protein-treatment-obesity-cardiovascular-disease.html