Unlocking the Secrets of Obesity-Induced Inflammation

Researchers at UT Southwestern have uncovered the mechanism by which obesity triggers inflammation, leading to conditions like diabetes and liver disease. The study reveals that obesity inactivates the enzyme SAMHD1, causing excessive DNA building blocks and damaged mitochondrial DNA, fueling inflammation.

Scientists at UT Southwestern have identified how obesity induces inflammation, potentially leading to diseases like diabetes and liver disease. The work focuses on how obesity impacts the immune cell protein complex called NLRP3, accelerating DNA damage and inflammation.

The study observed increased NLRP3 activity in obese individuals and high-fat-fed mice due to the deactivation of the SAMHD1 enzyme, allowing nucleotide build-up and mitochondrial DNA damage. This cascade results in significant inflammation.

The findings suggest new methods to prevent obesity-induced inflammation, such as reactivating SAMHD1, blocking nucleotide delivery, or preventing damaged mitochondrial DNA from interacting with NLRP3, offering fresh avenues for treatment.

(With inputs from agencies.)