Identification of signals secreted by the gut that regulate food intake and metabolism
Novo Nordisk Foundation
University of Copenhagen
The twin epidemics of diabetes and obesity are major, fast-growing global health challenges. Some of the most promising and innovative approaches to treat these conditions involve manipulating hormonal signals from the gastrointestinal tract. The gut talks to the brain and other organs by releasing hormones into the blood that relay how hungry we are, what we should or should not eat, and whether the body should store energy or burn it. Although some important gut hormones have been discovered, over 2,000 proteins with potential hormonal function exist, representing a significant unexploited resource for the discovery of new therapies against metabolic disorders. The aim of this project is to systematically identify the hormones used by the gut to communicate with the brain and other tissues to regulate appetite and metabolism. Identifying gut hormones that regulate hunger and energy storage may provide new treatments for diabetes and obesity.
Research Projects (Max 10 MDKK) / Investigators / Award