A Thr94Ala mutation in human liver fatty acid-binding protein contributes to reduced hepatic glycogenolysis and blunted elevation of plasma glucose levels in lipid-exposed subjects.

Liver fatty acid-binding protein (L-FABP) is a highly conserved key factor in lipid metabolism. Amino acid replacements in L-FABP might alter its function and thereby affect glucose metabolism in lipid-exposed subjects, as indicated by studies in L-FABP knockout mice. Amino acid replacements in L-FABP were investigated in a cohort of 1,453 Caucasian subjects.

No effect of free fatty acids on adrenocorticotropin and cortisol secretion in healthy young men.

Free fatty acids (FFAs) affect anterior pituitary function. However, the effect of FFAs on corticotropin (ACTH) and cortisol in humans is controversial. Thus, we assessed the effect of a pronounced increase in circulating FFA levels induced by infusion of lipid/heparin on ACTH and cortisol secretion in young men.

Consuming fructose-sweetened beverages increases body adiposity in mice.

Objective: The marked increase in the prevalence of obesity in the United States has recently been attributed to the increased fructose consumption. To determine if and how fructose might promote obesity in an animal model, we measured body composition, energy intake, energy expenditure, substrate oxidation, and several endocrine parameters related to energy homeostasis in mice consuming fructose.

Research Methods And Procedures: We compared the effects of ad libitum access to fructose (15% solution in water), sucrose (10%, popular soft drink), and artificial sweetener (0% calories, popular diet soft drink) on adipogenesis and energy metabolism in mice.

The many faces of ghrelin: new perspectives for nutrition research?

The appetite-modulating peptide ghrelin is predominantly produced and secreted by the stomach and shows a strong growth hormone-releasing activity, which is mediated by the activation of the so-called growth hormone secretagogue type 1a receptor. Ghrelin is involved in the regulation of energy balance by increasing food intake and reducing fat utilization. Additionally, it stimulates lactotroph and corticotroph function, influences the pituitary gonadal axis, inhibits pro-inflammatory cytokine expression, controls gastric motility and acid secretion and influences pancreatic exocrine and endocrine function, as well as impacting on glucose metabolism.