Neuronal lipid droplets coordinate whole-body energy balance with male-biased effects across species
The study shows neuronal lipid droplets (nLDs) exist in vivo in both flies and mice; their formation is regulated by triglyceride metabolism enzymes and LD-associated proteins. Modulating nLDs produces conserved, male-biased effects on whole-body energy homeostasis, particularly in neurons that link environmental cues to energy balance. Mechanistically, nLD-derived lipids supply fatty acids and phospholipids to support mitochondrial and endoplasmic reticulum function, highlighting a conserved role for nLDs in coordinating neuronal lipid supply and demand for healthy energy regulation.