Columbia University engineers have created a substance containing nanoparticles that help fight obesity. work of scientists published in the journal Nature Nanotechnology.
The main task of the fat cell is to create an energy reserve in the form of lipids, which are subsequently spent. Aged fat cells delay lipid metabolism, which causes fat accumulation in the body.
Scientists used the substance PAMAM-G3. It belongs to the class of dendrimers – these are nanoparticles with unique properties used in mass spectrometry, electron and atomic spectroscopy and ultrafiltration. Such molecules can change their mass, shape and stiffness, this is accompanied by a change in physicochemical properties. Therefore, with the help of PAMAM-G3, it is possible to affect the cells and tissues of a living organism.
The extracellular matrix of old adipose tissue – a protein “network” located between cells – contains a large number of negatively charged ions. The researchers suggested that if PAMAM-G3 was introduced into the body, cells could be regenerated due to its positive charge. This was confirmed by experiments on mice.
“We used a cationic charge to rejuvenate the fat cells of obese mice. This promotes the birth of new fat cells. They are common in athletes and they are much easier to get rid of. Rejuvenation takes place because the material prevents the accumulation of unhealthy lipids that cause obesity. As a result, the mice lost weight.” .
The team says the substance could be used to treat obesity in many people.