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Researchers at UC Davis are
studying how genes influence the amount of
arachidonic acid (a fatty
acid important in the synthesis of prostaglandins in
the body) in the liver and muscle cells of a
special strain of rats called Zucker rats. They
found that rats that have inherited obese genes from
both parents have decreased levels of arachidonic
acid in their muscles and liver. These rats will
become fat even when fed a very low calorie diet.
More importantly, researchers were able to reduce
body weight and body fat in these obese rats by
feeding them a special fatty acid supplement that
increased arachidonic acid in their muscle cells.
Researchers also found decreased arachidonic acid in
the blood of obese humans.
They are studying the effectiveness of this
special fatty acid supplement in maintaining lost
weight in previously obese individuals. Trials
using leptin injection in humans are underway, and
appear to be successful in patients who have
" leptin resistance".
Other hormones such as neuropeptide Y,
cholecystokinin, and glucagon like peptide 1 are
also being actively explored as appetite
suppressants in the treatment of obesity.
Scientists have made tremendous strides in
understanding obesity and in improving the
medication treatment of this important disease. In
time, better, safer, and more effective obesity
medications will be available. But currently there
is still no "magic
cure" for obesity. The best and safest
way to lose fat and keep it off is through a
commitment to a life long process of proper diet
and regular exercise. Medications should be
considered helpful adjuncts to diet and exercise
for patients whose health risk from obesity
clearly outweigh the potential side effects of the
medications. Medications should be prescribed by
doctors familiar with the patients' conditions and
with the use of the medications. Medication(s) and
other "herbal"
preparations with unproven effectiveness and
safety should be avoided. |
