Obesity Breakthrough: Brain’s “Stop Eating” Switch Discovered

Columbia University researchers have identified specialized neurons in mice that signal when to stop eating, offering potential new avenues for obesity treatment, SciTech Daily reported. Located in the brainstem, these neurons integrate sensory and hormonal cues, marking a significant advancement in understanding appetite regulation.

Lead researcher Alexander Nectow highlighted that these neurons are distinct from others that typically respond to food intake or gut fullness. Using innovative single-cell techniques, the team distinguished these previously unrecognized cells, revealing their critical role in the eating process.

When activated by light, the engineered neurons prompted mice to consume smaller meals, gradually signaling them to slow down their eating. Additionally, the neurons were influenced by hormones related to appetite, suggesting a complex interplay in food intake regulation.

While the study was conducted on mice, Nectow believes that similar neurons likely exist in humans, paving the way for future obesity therapies aimed at enhancing satiety signaling.