Study uncovers fruit fly metabolism gene

BONN, Germany, Nov. 12 (UPI) -- German scientists say they have discovered a new fruit fly gene that directs the metabolism of fat.

Led by Professor Michael Hoch and Reinhard Bauer at the University of Bonn, the researchers said they determined fruit fly larvae in which the gene is defective lose their fat reserves and can die.

The researchers called the gene "schlank," which is German for "slim."

The scientists said the gene contains instructions for the production of a class of chemicals known as ceramide synthases that are components of the membranes of all cells in the body. The researchers said they also determined that schlank has a regulatory function -- promoting lipid synthesis, and inhibiting the mobilization of fat from fat reserves.

Since mammals also carry a group of genes that are structurally very similar to schlank, the researchers said those genes might take on a similar function in energy metabolism. The scientists therefore say they have hopes of creating new medicines to treat obesity.

The findings appear in the EMBO Journal.