Protein suppresses the appetite?

Research results will enable the development of better care for obese and overweight patients.  Previous studies have shown that eating proteins causes the intestine to synthesize glucose some time after eating. Glucose getting into the blood is detected by the nervous system, which sends a saturation signal to the brain.   Recent research has made it possible to accurately describe how protein digestion affects the double chain of reactions between the abdominal (via the vagus nerve) and the dorsal (via the spinal cord) of the peripheral nervous system.  An in-depth study of the biological mechanisms has identified the characteristic µ-opioid receptors in the portal vein of the nervous system at the exit from the intestine. These receptors are inhibited by the oligopeptides produced during protein digestion.  The intestine sends a message about the suppression of appetite to the appropriate centers in the brain that are responsible for food consumption, such as the hypothalamus.  1. Consumption of dietary proteins. 2. Protein residues (oligopeptides) entering the intestine through the portal vein. 3. Recognition of µ-opioid receptors by oligopeptides. 4. Reception of peripheral signals. 5. Induction of gluconeogenesis.  6. Message ‘appetite suppression sent to the brain.

Identifying these receptors and their role in gluconeogenesis paves the way for research into new treatments for obesity. The current challenge is to determine how the µ-opioid receptors should be influenced in order to be able to control satiety over a long period of time.  Using them too intensively can make them insensitive. You have to find a way to activate them moderately in order to keep them longer beneficial effect on controlling the amount of food consumed. source: ScienceNews.pl

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