Chonnam National University Discovers Key Protein in Obesity Management

In a groundbreaking study, researchers at Chonnam National University have identified a critical protein, Ret finger protein (RFP), that plays a key role in the formation and regulation of fat cells. This discovery could open new avenues for the treatment of obesity, a condition characterized by excessive fat accumulation that has remained poorly understood despite extensive research.

Obesity is a complex biological phenomenon driven by various factors, and the processes that lead to abnormal fat accumulation have long been a riddle. The recent research led by Professor Hyun Kook from the Department of Pharmacology sheds light on the intricate molecular mechanisms at play.

For years, RFP was primarily recognized for its role in genetic regulation and skeletal muscle differentiation. However, its influence in fat metabolism had not been explored until now. The research team demonstrated that RFP functions as a significant enhancer in the process of adipogenesis, which is how precursor cells differentiate into adipocytes, the cells responsible for fat storage. This study was conducted in collaboration with several prestigious institutions, including the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology.

The findings were published in the renowned journal Experimental Molecular Medicine on October 6, 2025, following their online release on September 18, 2025. Professor Kook emphasized the importance of RFP, stating, "We discovered that RFP operates like a hidden accelerator for obesity. High levels of RFP facilitate the formation and expansion of fat cells, while its absence allows the body to resist weight gain, even when exposed to a high-fat diet."

Using mice models and cell culture tests, the researchers validated the pivotal role of RFP in fat cell formation. Mice that did not express RFP exhibited remarkable protection against obesity when subjected to a high-fat diet, gaining far less weight and maintaining healthier metabolic profiles compared to their normal counterparts. Additionally, these mice displayed improved glucose tolerance, heightened insulin sensitivity, and decreased circulating lipids, indicating broader benefits to metabolism.

What's particularly intriguing is that the research team found increased expression of RFP in human adipose tissues from obese individuals, suggesting that the implications of this research extend beyond animal models. Understanding how RFP promotes fat accumulation led to another significant finding: RFP directly interacts with PPAR-γ, a critical transcription factor that regulates adipocyte differentiation. By enhancing the transcriptional activity of PPAR-γ, RFP amplifies the expression of genes involved in fat cell generation, propelling the process of adipogenesis.

As Professor Kook notes, "RFP fortifies PPAR-γ signaling, thereby accelerating fat cell formation. In the absence of RFP, fat cell formation is suppressed, resulting in a more favorable metabolic profile."

The ramifications of this discovery have far-reaching significance for public health. While existing obesity treatments largely focus on curbing appetite or energy expenditure, targeting RFP presents a more innovative approach by addressing fat accumulation at its core. Inhibiting RFP could potentially prevent excessive fat accumulation long before metabolic diseases manifest.

Looking ahead, the research team envisions the development of targeted therapies that leverage RFP manipulation, not just for weight management, but also to address metabolic disorders linked to obesity. This vital discovery paves the way for a future where innovative treatments can help combat the rising tide of obesity and its related health complications, providing hope for a healthier tomorrow.

Reference
Title: Ret finger protein deficiency attenuates adipogenesis in male mice with high fat diet-induced obesity
Journal: Experimental Molecular Medicine
DOI: 10.1038/s12276-025-01553-7
Website: Chonnam National University

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