Matthew Potthoff, Diabetes Research Center member published a new study which focuses on actions of a hormone called fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21). FGF21 is known to play a role in energy balance, body weight control and insulin sensitivity.
Previously, Potthoff and his colleagues discovered that FGF21 is made in the liver in response to increased levels of sugar, and acts in the brain to suppress sugar intake and the preference for sweet taste.
Expanding further on his previous study, Potthoff has now been able to show, for the first time, which brain cells respond to FGF21’s signals and how that interaction helps regular sugar intake and sweet taste preference.