New map of the brain reveals the route to weight loss, says expert
Researchers have created a new map of a key part of our brain, the hypothalamus, that will lead to new ways of controlling our weight, appetite, sleep and stress levels.
A team of researchers have devised the most detailed map yet of a key part of our brain, the hypothalamus. Our hypothalamus controls everything from our body weight and appetite to how we handle stress.
The new HYPOMAP was revealed this week in the journal Nature and the study’s senior author, Professor Giles Yeo, Chair of Rio.life’s Scientific Advisory Board, says it is already giving us more accurate knowledge into how weight loss drugs such as Weygovy (Ozempic/semaglutide) and Mounjaro (tirzepatide) actually work.
Professor Yeo, who is based at the Institute of Metabolic Science, University of Cambridge, says: “This is a game-changer for understanding the human hypothalamus. HYPOMAP confirms the critical role of the hypothalamus in body-weight regulation and has already allowed us to identify new genes linked to obesity. It gives us a roadmap to develop more effective, specific therapies.”
Professor Yeo, continues: ‘The good news is that, unlike many areas of health research, this new “atlas” of the hypothalamus will have an impact on treatments for conditions such as obesity in the very near future. Understanding how the hypothalamus changes in people who are overweight fundamentally shifts our approach to metabolic health and will enable more personalised therapies.”
Previous understanding of the way the hypothalamus works was, until now, largely derived from functional studies in mice. However the new HYPOMAP has revealed that popular weight-loss drugs like semaglutide work very differently on mice than they do on human brains.
Professor Yeo explained “HYPOMAP allows researchers to pinpoint specific cell types, understand their genetic profiles, and explore how they interact with neighbouring cells.”
Jaie Genadt, CEO of Rio.life, shares the company's excitement about the potential of this research. “This study validates our vision and commitment to developing effective interventions through personalised health solutions.
“Our commitment is to improving health by turning cutting-edge research into practical, empowering solutions that make a difference in the lives of our customers.