Oxytocin Reduces Obesity in Diet-Induced Obese Rats
Author Information
Author(s): Deblon Nicolas, Veyrat-Durebex Christelle, Bourgoin Lucie, Caillon Aurélie, Bussier Anne-Lise, Petrosino Stefania, Piscitelli Fabiana, Legros Jean-Jacques, Geenen Vincent, Foti Michelangelo, Wahli Walter, Di Marzo Vincenzo, Rohner-Jeanrenaud Françoise
Primary Institution: University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
Hypothesis
The study aims to unravel the mechanisms underlying the beneficial effects of oxytocin on obesity.
Conclusion
Oxytocin administration could represent a promising therapeutic approach for the treatment of human obesity and type 2 diabetes.
Supporting Evidence
- Oxytocin infusion caused a dose-dependent decrease in body weight gain.
- Plasma oxytocin levels increased upon central infusion.
- Oxytocin increased the expression of enzymes involved in lipid metabolism.
- Oxytocin infusion improved insulin sensitivity in diet-induced obese rats.
- Oxytocin administration did not change food intake but reduced body weight.
- Oxytocin's effects on lipid metabolism were mediated by PPAR-alpha.
- Chronic oxytocin infusion increased adipose tissue lipolysis and fatty acid oxidation.
- Oxytocin may influence body weight gain via direct action on adipose tissue.
Takeaway
Oxytocin can help rats lose weight even if they don't eat less, and it works by changing how their bodies use fat.
Methodology
Chronic central oxytocin infusion was performed in high fat diet-induced obese rats to assess its impact on body weight, lipid metabolism, and insulin sensitivity.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in the interpretation of results due to the use of animal models.
Limitations
The study primarily focused on male Wistar rats, which may limit the generalizability of the findings to other populations.
Participant Demographics
Male Wistar rats (300–325 g) were used in the study.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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