Obesity continues to be a significant global health issue, contributing to increased risks of heart disease and fatty liver disease as rates rise alongside energy-rich diets and less physical activity. A new study published in Science Signaling by researchers from University Hospitals and Case Western Reserve University has identified an enzyme, SCoR2, that plays a key role in fat regulation.
The research team discovered that SCoR2 removes nitric oxide from proteins involved in controlling fat accumulation. Their findings indicate that the removal of nitric oxide activates fat synthesis, making SCoR2 essential for this process. By inhibiting SCoR2 through genetic methods and a newly developed drug, the scientists observed prevention of weight gain and liver injury in mouse models. The drug also reduced levels of harmful cholesterol.
"We have a new class of drug that prevents weight gain and lowers cholesterol-a potential therapy for obesity and cardiovascular disease, with additional hepatic benefits," said Jonathan Stamler, MD, President and Co-Founder of Harrington Discovery Institute, Distinguished University Professor at University Hospitals and Case Western Reserve University.
"In the liver, nitric oxide inhibits the proteins that make fat and cholesterol. In fat tissue, nitric oxide inhibits the genetic program that makes the enzymes that create fat," Dr. Stamler added.
The next phase for this research is to advance the drug into clinical trials within approximately 18 months.
"Our team looks forward to further developing a first-in-class drug to block weight gain and lower cholesterol, with favorable effects on liver health," Dr. Stamler said.
Harrington Discovery Institute at UH will support development efforts for this potential therapy. The institute has been active for 13 years and currently supports a portfolio with over 227 medicines in development across 75 institutions; it has helped launch 46 companies, brought 24 medicines into clinical use, and secured 15 licenses with pharmaceutical companies.
