MTCH2 protein switch could boost fat burn while hindering new fat cells
Researchers identify MTCH2 ('Mitch') as a regulator of mitochondrial fusion; deleting Mitch in human cells fragments mitochondria and increases energy demand, boosting fat and carbohydrate breakdown and reducing new fat-cell formation. In mice, Mitch suppression in muscle improves endurance and protects against obesity. The findings point to Mitch as a potential target to enhance fat burning while limiting fat storage, though the work is early-stage and preclinical.
