ETH Zurich researchers have recognized an “epigenetic reminiscence” in fats cells that explains why misplaced weight usually returns rapidly after weight-reduction plan. This organic foundation for the irritating “yo-yo impact” might result in new approaches for sustaining weight reduction.Printed in Nature | Estimated studying time: 8 minutes
When individuals shed some pounds by weight-reduction plan, they usually regain it quickly – a phenomenon referred to as the yo-yo impact that has puzzled scientists for years. Now, researchers at ETH Zurich have found that fats cells retain a long-lasting “reminiscence” of their earlier overweight state, even after profitable weight reduction.
The analysis group discovered that weight problems causes lasting chemical modifications, known as epigenetic modifications, to genes in fats cells. These modifications persist even after weight reduction, making it simpler for the cells to return to their earlier state.
“The fats cells keep in mind the obese state and may return to this state extra simply,” explains Professor Ferdinand von Meyenn, who led the examine. “Which means we’ve discovered a molecular foundation for the yo-yo impact.”
The findings come from research in each mice and people. The researchers analyzed fats tissue from previously obese individuals who had undergone weight reduction surgical procedure, in addition to from mice that have been fed high-fat diets after which returned to regular diets.
“Fats cells are long-lived cells. On common, they reside for ten years earlier than our physique replaces them with new cells,” explains Laura Hinte, the examine’s lead creator. This lengthy lifespan means the epigenetic modifications can persist for years.
At present, there’s no method to erase this mobile reminiscence with medication. “Possibly that’s one thing we’ll be capable of do sooner or later,” Hinte notes. “However in the intervening time, we’ve to reside with this reminiscence impact.”
The analysis emphasizes the significance of prevention. “It’s exactly due to this reminiscence impact that it’s so essential to keep away from being obese within the first place. As a result of that’s the best method to fight the yo-yo phenomenon,” says von Meyenn.
Glossary
- Epigenetics
- The examine of organic mechanisms that change genes on and off with out altering the DNA sequence itself.
- Yo-yo Impact
- The cycle of losing a few pounds by weight-reduction plan, then regaining it rapidly after the weight-reduction plan ends.
- Fats Cells (Adipocytes)
- Specialised cells that retailer vitality as fats, enjoying a vital position in physique weight regulation.
Quiz
What causes the yo-yo impact in accordance with the brand new analysis?
Reply: Epigenetic modifications in fats cells that create a “reminiscence” of the earlier overweight state, making it simpler to regain weight.
How lengthy do fats cells usually reside?
Reply: About 10 years earlier than being changed by new cells.
Can the mobile reminiscence of weight problems at the moment be erased with medication?
Reply: No, there are at the moment no medication accessible to erase this epigenetic reminiscence.
What’s the foremost advice from researchers to keep away from the yo-yo impact?
Reply: Prevention – avoiding turning into obese within the first place, for the reason that reminiscence impact is troublesome to counteract as soon as established.
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