The secrets of anti-ageing
FAEs are important for nerve and metabolic regulation but the mechanisms involved in theirproduction and regulation are still unknown. Anandamide, for instance, is an FAE that stimulates appetite, addiction, and brain synaptogenesis. Targeting the enzymes involved in FAE production could prove useful in treating inflammatory, pain, metabolic and neurodegenerative diseases. The EU-funded project NAPE-PLD was initiated to unravel the molecular mechanisms involved in FAE synthesis. In addition, researchers will also investigate potential healthcare applications. Researchers determined how an important enzyme in the process, N-acyl phosphatidylethanolamine phospholipase D (NAPE-PLD) is localised in cells. The structure of NAPE-PLD was studied at the atomic level using state-of-the-art technology such as X Ray crystallography. NAPEs are hormones released by the small intestine into our bloodstream when processing fats. This suggests that FAE synthesis is dependent on fat intake and this can also affect gastrointestinal motility, appetite, mood and anxiety. Regulating fat content in the diet could therefore be used to treat obesity, anorexia, addiction and mood disorders. Project members discovered several powerful molecules capable of modulating NAPE-PLD activity that could be used as therapeutic targets. The findings of the NAPE-PLD project have immense potential in several medical fields including nutrition and medicine with significant implications for our health and welfare. Besides highlighting the importance of eating behaviour on good health and longevity, project outcomes have laid the foundation for future studies and development of innovative therapies.
