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The fat burning mechanism has been unraveled
Last reviewed: 02.07.2025
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Scientists from the Scripps Research Institute have identified all the links in the mechanism that triggers fat burning in the intestinal cavity.
The study was conducted on Caenorhabditis elegans nematodes – these worms are often used for experiments as a simplified model of the human body.
Scientists have known for a long time that the breakdown of fat particles in the intestinal cavity is controlled by the mediator serotonin. But the exact mechanism of the hormone's influence on the fat-burning process has long remained a mystery.
During the study, nematodes were subjected to successive deletion of various genes – until the moment when the connection between serotonin production and fat breakdown was lost. This moment corresponded to the switching off of the gene responsible for encoding the FLP-7 peptide. Therefore, the fat burning process is associated with this peptide.
To obtain more detailed information, the scientists combined the peptide with a fluorescent red protein, after which they monitored the transport of the substance through the worm's body. This experiment made it possible to establish all the links in the reaction control chain: the chains of neurons in the brain, responding to a signal about the presence of food masses in the intestine, contributed to the formation of serotonin.
The same signal affected the functioning of another type of nerve cell, stimulating the production of the FLP-7 peptide. In turn, the peptide stimulated receptors in the intestinal walls, which responded by releasing substances that help break down fat particles and transform these particles into free energy. To accomplish these processes, the peptide traveled from the brain structures to the intestines via the circulatory system.
It is noteworthy that specialists discovered FLP-7 in animals almost a century ago. However, at that time no one thought that there was such a close connection between the peptide and lipid metabolism.
A series of studies conducted consistently also proved the fact that an artificially created increase in the level of FLP-7 accelerates the utilization of fat particles, without the development of any side effects: the nematodes continued their vital activity, but their fat reserves were “burned” more intensively.
Taking into account the information obtained during the research, scientific experts made an unambiguous conclusion: soon it will be possible to establish the production of drugs based on the hormonal substance of the peptide FLP-7, which will make it possible to immediately utilize fat coming with food, without undesirable consequences for the body. Thus, people will be able to forget about the existence of diets for weight loss: it will be allowed to eat almost any food and at any time of the day. The new drug based on the peptide will allow you to fully digest food, without additional deposition of a fat layer in problem areas.
It is not known when the production of the new weight loss drug will be launched. Most likely, several more studies will be needed to ensure that the information received is accurate. However, most experts are positive about a quick solution to this issue.