Researchers from the University of Southampton in the UK have developed a key molecule that can mimic the effects of exercise in the body. This may prove to be a potential target for developing future treatments of conditions such as type 2 diabetes and obesity. The findings were recently published in the journal Chemistry.
Ali Tavassoli, a professor of chemical biology at the University of Southampton , along with his research colleagues have developed a molecule called compound 14, which works by blocking the function of ATIC, a type of cellular enzyme that plays an important role in metabolism. Blocking ATIC function results in the accumulation of a molecule called ZMP in the cells, which then activates the central energy sensor in the cells called AMPK. This causes the cells to think that they are low in energy. Because of this, the cells then attempt to boost their energy levels by increasing the uptake of glucose and boosting metabolism.
In order to test compound 14, Tavassoli and his team used two groups of mice. Once group was given a normal diet while the other was fed with a high-fat diet, which made them become obese and glucose intolerant. The researchers found that mice treated with compound 14 who were given a normal diet retained normal body weight and blood glucose levels. The group of mice that were fed a high-fat diet and given a single dose of compound 14 daily for a period of 7 days showed improved glucose tolerance and lost around 5 percent of their body weight. The researchers noted that using compound 14 did not lead to weight loss in mice fed with a normal diet.
Based on the findings, the researchers believe that compound 14 can lead to the development of potential treatments for obesity. And with its ability to improve glucose tolerance, the researchers also state that it can open the door towards developing better treatments for type 2 diabetes.
The researchers will further try to develop compound 14 and monitor the outcome of long-term treatment. The research team also aims to understand the processes behind how this compound can remedy glucose intolerance and achieve weight loss. If the compound is found to be safe and effective, the researcher team believes that it can lead to promising new drugs that can be used to treat obesity and diabetes.
Source: Medical News Today
Tags: compound 14, diabetes and obesity, Diabetes News, diabetes study, type 2 diabetes