Grant: Project Grant

Obesity is a chronic disease caused by consuming more calories than we burn, and genetics and the environment play a role. Neuropeptides are molecules that help regulate our energy balance - some signals when we need to eat. In contrast, others tell our body to use or store energy. Fruit flies have simplified versions of these molecules, which can help us uncover factors important for regulating energy balance. NUCB1 is a molecule found in both flies and humans that helps maintain energy balance and works differently in males and females. In our study, we aim to understand how NUCB1 blocks the desire to eat and how it functions differently in males and females. These insights can lead to sex specific approaches for preventing or treating obesity.