Study Finds Enzyme Causes Faulty Fat Cells In Obese Subjects

Researchers at the University of Cincinnati have discovered the enzyme histone deacetylase 9 (HDAC9) causes body fat disorders and could be targeted for treatments. HDAC9 is associated with the efficient transformation of fat cells that help maintain proper lipid and glucose balances. Many problems linked to obesity, including diabetes and cardiovascular diseases, stem from malfunctioning fat cells. The researchers found that when HDAC9 levels became elevated in obese mice the fat cells failed to perform normally and caused hormonal instability. Further experiments will see if removing the HDAC9 gene from obese mice helps provide any protection from obesity related problems.