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White fat cells store lipids, and brown fat cells burn lipids. Recently, we have learned that humans of all ages have brown fat cells. Creating more brown fat cells could help treat obesity.
A European team reports evidence that cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 is important in stimulating formation of brown fat cells. The most compelling evidence came from genetically engineered mice that expressed high levels of COX-2. These mice were 20% lighter in body weight than wild-type mice, a difference that was explained entirely by amount of fat; bone and muscle mass were preserved. The lower weight was due to higher energy expenditure, not to lower food intake. The mice also were protected against weight gain even when they were fed a high-fat diet and whe…