Ashhar Alam/New Delhi

Scientists have uncovered a key biological pathway that helps brown fat become more efficient at burning energy by building the internal network it depends on to function properly.

The study highlights the role of a protein called SLIT3, which splits into two active fragments. These fragments support the formation of blood vessels and nerve connections inside brown fat tissue, both essential for transporting nutrients and activating heat production.

Researchers say this structural support enables brown fat to rapidly convert glucose and lipids into heat through thermogenesis, rather than storing them as body fat. The findings were published in Nature Communications.

Brown fat differs from white fat, which primarily stores excess energy and is linked to obesity when accumulated in large amounts. In contrast, brown fat helps regulate body temperature and metabolic activity, especially during cold exposure.

According to the study team, SLIT3 is processed by an enzyme called BMP1, which divides it into two functional components, one promoting blood vessel growth and the other aiding nerve development. A receptor named PLXNA1 was also identified as a key player in supporting nerve formation within the tissue.

Experiments in mice showed that disruption of SLIT3 or PLXNA1 led to weaker brown fat structure, reduced heat generation, and increased sensitivity to cold, underscoring the importance of these networks.

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To examine its relevance in humans, researchers analyzed fat samples from thousands of individuals, including those with obesity, and found links between SLIT3 activity, metabolic health, and insulin sensitivity.

Experts believe the discovery could open new avenues for obesity treatment by focusing on increasing the body’s energy expenditure rather than reducing appetite. However, they emphasize that more research is needed before translating these findings into therapies.