A Sympathetic Defense Against Obesity

One of the most puzzling questions in obesity research is why some humans rapidly gain weight when they overeat, whereas others do not. In a compelling Perspective, [Dulloo][1] explains exciting new findings ([ Bachman et al .][2]) that reveal the molecular mechanisms underlying thermogenesis, a process in which extra food is converted into heat instead of fat. As Dulloo discloses, diet-induced thermogenesis is under the control of signaling through b-adrenergic receptors of the sympathetic nervous system. This work opens the door to developing anti-obesity therapeutics that activate diet-induced thermogenesis. [1]: http://www.sciencemag.org/cgi/content/full/297/5582/780 [2]: http://www.sciencemag.org/cgi/content/full/297/5582/843