Brown adipose tissue research explores new pathways for weight loss

Researchers led by Professor Matthias Betz from the University of Basel and University Hospital Basel are investigating the role of brown adipose tissue in weight management. Unlike white fat, which stores energy, brown fat burns energy to produce heat through thermogenesis.

A study published in ‘Cell Metabolism’ compared the effects of cold exposure and the drug fenoterol on energy expenditure and tissue activity. While both cold and fenoterol increased overall energy consumption, only cold exposure significantly activated brown fat, as evidenced by increased glucose uptake in PET/CT scans. Molecular analysis suggested that the Beta-3 receptor, rather than the Beta-2 receptor, is the primary switch for activating human brown fat.

The research aims to address the metabolic plateau often reached with weight-loss medications. However, the team noted that increased energy expenditure alone does not guarantee long-term weight loss and may potentially increase hunger.