Scientists have discovered and enzyme that will speed up metabolism in lab mice. This enzyme has been shown in genetically engineered mice that express the imflamatory enzyme IKKbeta in their fat tissue. This may lead to information on how insulin resistance and sensitivity are affected by obesity and inflammation. The "common knowledge" is that obesity leads to inflammation that leads to insulin resistance. But here, the reseachers changed these sequence of events.

In the study, the altered mice experienced much slower weight gain even though they consumed much more food. They used their calories much more efficiently. Also when injected with insulin, it was used more effectively. With the lower body weight, it is better for influencing insulin sensitivity.

This enzyme has a "dramatic impact on lipid metabolism," as said by a reasearcher at Alpert Medical School of Brown University. It is not clear how exactly IKKKbeta works, but they discovered expression of the gene is associated with fatty acid oxidation and making mitochondria.

This project was funded by the Amerian Heart Association, and was a joint work of the Alpert Medical School and the Jilin University in China.

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2011/11/111114133740.htm