Japanese researchers find age-related neuron shape changes in the hypothalamus contribute to middle-age obesity, with shortened primary cilia reducing MC4R concentration.

Japanese researchers from Nagoya University found that age-related changes in neurons' shape in the hypothalamus, which regulates metabolism and appetite, contribute to middle-age obesity. Primary cilia in hypothalamic neurons shorten with age, reducing melanocortin-4 receptor (MC4R) concentration, causing weight gain. The study suggests that maintaining moderate eating habits could help preserve the brain's anti-obesity system.