UNIVERSITY OF ADELAIDE, ADELAIDE, SOUTH AUSTRALIA. The intake of hot chili has been shown to reduce the intake of food in humans. The capsaicin that is found in hot chili has made this possible. The association of the hot chili pepper receptors (TRPV1) in the stomach and the feeling of fullness have been thoroughly investigated in laboratory studies. This new discovery can lead to the development of new therapies.
Professor Amanda Page, senior research fellow at the University of Adelaide’s School of Medicine, looked for ways on how to find an effective treatment for obesity. Their team discovered that a high-fat diet can impair the important receptors located in the stomach that signal fullness.
When the stomach is full, it stretches. This activates the nerves in the stomach to inform the body that it has enough food already. The team found out that this activation is regulated through TRPV1 receptors or by hot chili peppers.
Previous studies show that the capsaicin found in hot chili reduces food intake. The team discovered that the deletion of TRPV1 receptors reduces and weakens the response of gastric nerves to stretching. This leads to a delayed feeling of fullness and results in more food consumption. In this case, the effect of capsaicin on food intake can be mediated through the stomach.
The next goal of the team is the investigation of the mechanisms behind the TRPV1 receptor activation with the intent of concocting more palatable therapies. They will do more research on why a high-fat diet desensitizes TRPV1 receptors and investigate if any damages can be reversed.
| Invention | Hot Chili Peppers: A Possible New Cure for Obesity |
|---|---|
| Organization | The University of Adelaide |
| Researcher | Professor Amanda Page & Team |
| Field(s) | Nutrition, Gastrointestinal Diseases, Diet, Obesity |
| Further Information | http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2015/08/150818142710.htm |
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