Molecular Switch Triggers Fats' Harm

Researchers have identified the mechanism by which dietary saturated and trans-fats increase blood cholesterol and triglycerides. The molecule, PGC-1b, starts a path of biochemical signals in the liver which causes the liver to make fats and transport them into the bloodstream. This research can help scientists understand more about the metabolic syndrome, also known as syndrome X, a disease thought to possibly be caused by lipid production by the liver. By turning off PGC-1b or another component in the pathway, scientists may also be able to halt the harmful effects of fatty foods such as hamburgers and French fries.

Molecular Switch Triggers Fats' Harm
JAMA 2005;293:1180
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