UC Berkeley compound TOFA burns fat without muscle loss in mice
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UC Berkeley researchers report that the compound TOFA improved insulin sensitivity and reduced fat in obese mice without significant muscle loss. The study, published August 21 in Science Advances, found TOFA increased energy expenditure by up to 18% without raising physical activity or body temperature. The compound also avoided the triglyceride increase seen with other ACC inhibitors.
Key Facts
- TOFA improved insulin sensitivity and glucose control in obese mice, with no significant reduction in lean muscle mass.
- TOFA increased energy expenditure by up to 18% without increasing physical activity or body temperature.
- TOFA did not raise triglyceride levels, unlike other ACC inhibitors that have advanced to mid-stage clinical trials.
- The study was published August 21 in Science Advances by researchers at UC Berkeley.
Mechanism of Action
TOFA, or 5-tetradecyloxy-2-furoic acid, interferes with lipid production by inhibiting the enzyme ACC. It also activates PPARα and PPARδ receptors, which switch on genes for fat uptake and burning. This dual action distinguishes TOFA from other ACC inhibitors that only block lipid synthesis.
Experimental Results
In mice, TOFA reduced triglyceride levels and improved signs of fatty liver disease. Obese mice treated with TOFA lost fat while maintaining lean muscle mass. The compound increased energy use by up to 18% without raising physical activity or body temperature.
Research Context
TOFA was first discovered in the 1970s and belongs to a class of compounds called ACC inhibitors. Several ACC inhibitors have reached mid-stage clinical trials but none has been approved for metabolic disease. The study's senior author is Anders Näär, professor of metabolic biology and nutrition at UC Berkeley.
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UC Berkeley compound TOFA burns fat without muscle loss in mice
