OPA1 in appetite neurons linked to fat cravings in mice
Researchers in Japan found that removing the mitochondrial protein OPA1 specifically from MC4R-expressing neurons in the hypothalamus makes mice prefer fatty foods and gain weight faster, with stronger effects in females; pharmacological activation of MC4R reduced intake in males regardless of OPA1 status but was less effective in females lacking OPA1, suggesting mitochondrial function in appetite neurons influences fat intake and obesity risk, though results are limited to mice and may not translate to humans yet.