Neurons Derived From Super-Obese People Respond Differently to Appetite Hormone

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Most obese people have inherited some genes that contribute to the susceptibility of obesity. A lot of these genes manage hypothalamic functions like feeding. Scientists from the United States have created hypothalamus-like neurons using stem cells taken from the blood and skin of both super obese people and people of a normal body weight. The neurons taken from those who were super obese showed an abnormally strong response to ghrelin compared to those of a normal body weight. They found that these neurons were more likely to disrupt hormones related to hunger and feeding.

This relates back to the topic of hunger and feeding signals focused on in lecture. One feeding signal in particular that was focused on was ghrelin, the hormone that tells you that you are hungry. By addressing the differences in individuals with normal body weight and those diagnosed as obese, researchers can find ways to find solutions.This article introduces the topic of finding curative ways to deal with hunger problems like obesity by focusing on the hypothalamus and affected genes.

http://neurosciencenews.com/super-obese-appetite-hormone-8844/

Comments

  1. Kayla GomezApril 26, 2018 at 10:05 PM

    It's interesting to read that there is an abnormally strong response to ghrelin in obese people than in a normal person. It's interesting to think about because, like you stated that plays a huge role in the body signaling to the person that they are hungry. If someone has a abnormally strong response then it is only assumed that will eat more and are more prone to be constantly hungry and feeling the need to eat. I am curious as to if this caused more by genetics or if it is something that happens randomly.

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