Researchers at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio have discovered how the liver’s internal biological clock regulates the release of proteins involved in metabolism.
The study, published in the journal Nature Communications, found that many proteins produced by the liver are not released continuously but according to a specific daily schedule.
This allows the liver to send signals to other organs, including adipose tissue, at the appropriate time, helping coordinate metabolism.
Almost every cell in the body has its own molecular clock, which helps synchronize physiological processes. Because the liver plays a central role in metabolism, the researchers sought to determine how its internal rhythm affects communication with other tissues.
One of the most interesting findings involved endostatin, a liver-derived protein involved in fat breakdown. The researchers found that it has a stronger effect on adipose tissue when it is released in accordance with the liver’s natural daily rhythm.
According to the researchers, this finding could have implications for future treatments of metabolic disorders. In particular, drugs based on similar proteins could potentially work more effectively if administered at specific times of day.
The scientists also note that disrupted sleep patterns and irregular eating have been associated with an increased risk of obesity, diabetes, and other metabolic diseases. The new findings suggest that when developing medications and dietary recommendations, it may be important to consider not only what and how much a person eats, but also when these processes take place.
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